The International Diabetes Educator Association (IDEA 21) was established by Jae Shin, R.Ph.president of Jays Diabetes Institute in Los Angeles, California, USA. He has been a Diabetes Educator since 1990.

The purpose of this organization is to provide free information to Diabetes patients. Through this website, many patients will be able to maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle with their family and friends.
Good control of blood sugar levels is the only way to reduce severe painful complications in the future, as well as reducing the need for medical expenses.

In order to reach this goal, IDEA 21 will select medical professionals that will discuss the content of Diabetic education and the skills required for an adequate education. Patients will then receive the proper information needed from this website and will be able to teach other uninformed patients.

Most medical professionals do not have enough time to teach diabetes patients, which is why this website is beneficial. From this website, patients can receive valuable information about how to control their health properly. Educators can direct patients to this website. If patients have any questions, including diet, exercise, medication and complications,they may discuss them with their health professional.

IDEA 21 educators will consist of caring, efficient professionals who will contribute to the patients future welfare. Furthermore, they will help communities and, eventually, the government. Those who join the membership will enjoy good relationships with other diabetic educators, sharing useful information and skills with each other.

Regular members are required to be medical doctors, pharmacists, nurses, dieticians, or anyone practicing in these areas, as authorized by their own country's government. Hospital administrators and pharmacy administrators are also qualified for this position. In order to become a member, one must take a 100 question exam and receive a score of 75% or above.
Exams may be taken again without an extra fee.

After passing the exam, educator candidates must submit $100 (US currency) to IDEA 21, and they will receive certification and will be added onto the local educators site for one year. The membership and local site will be renewed every year with a fee of $100. All members must submit two case studies of patient improvement within one year.
This certification is not an authorization by the government to perform medical practices, such as diagnosis and treatment, etc.

Patients are eligible to become Honorable members. They must take a 25 question exam, passing at least 75% with a $10 (US currency) fee.
This fee is renewable annually. Honorable members receive a monthly newsletter through email.

Regular and Honorable members can teach other patients about diabetic information and then direct them to this website: www.idea21.org.