Letter: DSNs must promote the value of academic study

The results of the questionnaire run through the Journal of Diabetes Nursing and published last time (2 (4): 101) indicated that some DSNs appeared very negative about degrees, suggesting that a degree-level qualification might be valued above or even instead of experience – I do not believe that this is true.

However, nor have I ever met anyone who has undertaken a degree who has not subsequently reflected on the benefit they have gained from any health related degree pathway, within which diabetes-focused work can be undertaken.

DSNs should rightfully be involved in local diabetes education, strategic district planning and moving their services forward, all of which require more than patient skills alone. We must continue to promote the value of academic study to our employers and our DSN colleagues, as a way of enhancing both personal and professional development. The struggle of some DSNs to find time and funding through their employment for academic study raises concern, and we must continue our attempts to gain recognition as to the value of such study.