Centering Lifecycle overview

Centering is a multifaceted model of group care integrating the three major components of care: health assessment, education, and support, into a unified program within a group setting. The Centering model has potential to work for any health care population across the lifecycle including those with chronic illness. CenteringDiabetes is the most developed model and is currently being tested both in for pregnant women with diabetes and for the diabetes population at large.

CenteringDiabetes brings the care component, both the provider’s assessment and the patient’s self-assessment of health data into the group space. Group members may collect their weight and blood pressure data, do blood checks, and have foot and eye assessments done within the structure of the group. An individual health check with the provider also occurs with triaging of any complicated issues requiring either privacy or specialist follow-up.

Chronic care models group 10-20 patients, allowing them to meet together over time (a year or more) learning self-care skills, setting personal goals, participating in a facilitated discussion, and developing a support network with other group members. Population specific groups could include geriatrics, menopause, and interconception. Through this unique model of care, patients are empowered to choose health-promoting behaviors. Groups provide a continuing community for families and opportunities for competence and confidence building for patients.

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