Diabetes Care at Diabetes Camps

• Diabetes • May 27, 10

RESEARCH AT CAMP

Clinical research is often performed and encouraged at diabetes camps. However, if such projects are to be done, they must not interfere with the integrity of the camping program. All research conducted in the camp setting should be minimally invasive to the camping experience. All studies should be approved by an institutional review board in good standing and by the camp medical and program director before the camping session. Parents and campers must have the consent form, a summary/synopsis of the research protocol, and the ability to contact the principal investigator before consenting to enter the research study. Informed consent from parents or guardians and assent from the camper must be obtained, preferably before arrival at camp.

OTHER

At times, industries related to diabetes may wish to have a presence at camp. Camp medical staff and administrative personnel should develop policies for visits from industries while camp is in session. Industries seeking to have a presence at camp should be subject to the same background checks and standards outlined by the ADA. Employees of industries serving in the role of volunteer or paid medical staff at camp are prohibited from soliciting or endorsing their company’s products.

CONCLUSION

Camps for children and youth focused on diabetes are invaluable. Most camps have a high return rate for campers, many of whom have gone on to become counselors, staff, and role models for younger campers. Thus, it is reasonable to assume that they have benefited not only from the camp experience but also from the friendships that have developed from being in an environment where the norm is to have diabetes. Providing high-standard diabetes care is imperative to maximize the experience offered by camps specialized for children with diabetes. Using the active camping environment as a teaching opportunity is an invaluable way for children with diabetes to gain skills in managing their disease within the supportive camp community.

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AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION
DIABETES CARE, VOLUME 27, SUPPLEMENT 1, JANUARY 2004

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