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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the A1C Champions® Program?

The A1C Champions® Program is a patient-led approach to diabetes education. A1C Champions are people with diabetes who share diabetes self-management and lifestyle strategies based on extensive training and their personal experience.

What is the role of an A1C Champion?

An A1C Champion’s primary role is to conduct empowering presentations for other people with diabetes, their family and friends. In these 60-minute, patient-to-patient presentations, an A1C Champion talks about his or her physical, emotional and psychological experiences with diabetes. The A1C Champion shares personal insights and helpful strategies. Topics covered include:

  • The importance of good blood sugar control
  • Effective self-management
  • A balanced, healthier lifestyle
  • Effective communication
  • Lifelong learning
  • How to plan and prioritize
  • Available support resources
  • Help overcoming fears surrounding diabetes, such as using a needle to self-inject insulin
  • Patients’ responsibility in managing diabetes

Where do A1C Champions® make these presentations?

Presentations can take place in a variety of locations, including hospitals, diabetes education centers, physicians’ offices, pharmacies, wellness centers, local community centers, companies, places of worship, colleges and universities and libraries.

What qualifications must I have to become an A1C Champion?

Becoming an A1C Champion requires:

  • A medical diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
  • An A1C of less than 7%, the ADA-recommended goal
  • Taking insulin injections for at least 3 months
  • A history of successful self-management of diabetes
  • Excellent communication skills
  • A strong desire to help others
  • A willingness and ability to complete at least 24 hours of self-study in preparation for a 2½ -day on-site training session
  • A willingness and ability to commit to a minimum of 2 one-hour presentations each month in the year following your training and certification
  • Adequate health and stamina for travel
  • A friendly, compassionate personality
  • A positive attitude
  • Openness to growth and learning

How do I become an A1C Champion?

For those who meet the above criteria, there are 3 steps to complete to become an A1C Champion.

Step 1: Complete a Patient Information Sheet.

Step 2: Complete a telephone discussion.
After you submit a completed Patient Information Sheet, you will be contacted by a representative of the A1C Champions® team who may schedule a telephone discussion that will last approximately 45 minutes.

Step 3: Complete A1C Champions® training and evaluation.
If it is determined that the program is a good match for both your skills and availability, you will be asked to complete approximately 24 hours of self-study and a 2½-day on-site training and evaluation session. There is also a reevaluation process that takes place on an annual basis.

What training do A1C Champions® receive?

Training for the A1C Champions® patient-to-patient education program includes:

  • A clinical overview of diabetes
  • A review of the challenges associated with living with diabetes, as well as suggestions for managing and overcoming these obstacles
  • Guidance on how best to share personal examples of successful diabetes self-management
  • Personal development and lifestyle management
  • Communication skills
  • Presentation skills

How long does the training process take?

An estimated 24 hours of self-study and a 2½-day on-site training session are required to become an A1C Champion for the patient-to-patient education program. You will receive training materials and a personal study plan approximately 6 weeks prior to the scheduled training session. You will also have a training Coach (an experienced patient presenter and Trainer) available to speak with you weekly to offer support and answer any questions you may have about studying and preparing for your presentation.

What is expected of an A1C Champion?

After completing training and certification, A1C Champions® are asked to conduct a minimum of 2 one-hour presentations each month during the next year. In some cases, A1C Champions® may be asked to make a presentation in a destination that requires travel and an overnight stay. The A1C Champions® Business Office will make all travel arrangements and will cover all related travel expenses for A1C Champions® programs.

Why should I become an A1C Champion?

The A1C Champions® Program will deepen your knowledge about diabetes and how to manage a healthier lifestyle. You will also learn how to help other patients better understand and manage their diabetes by sharing your knowledge and your personal experiences with diabetes. Also, other patient mentors report that they get a deep sense of fulfillment from helping others.

Will I be compensated for my time and expenses?

Once you have successfully completed the training and evaluation process and are an active A1C Champion, you will receive a speaker fee for each presentation you conduct. You will have the option to have your speaker fee donated to a charity or patient association of your choice. You are not compensated for the time you spend on self-study and preparation for presentations. Travel expenses directly related to the A1C Champions® Program will be reimbursed according to established guidelines. Travel expenses include airfare, lodging, meals and transportation.

I would like to participate in the A1C Champions® Program.
How do I get started?

If you are interested in exploring the opportunity to become an A1C Champion, take the first step and answer a few quick questions. If, after answering these questions, it is determined that you meet the criteria, you will be taken to a Patient Information Sheet that you can complete and submit.

Upon receipt of your completed form, you will be contacted by a representative of the A1C Champions® team to discuss the next steps. If you have any questions, please contact us or call us at 1-866-741-7047.