Articles from Diabetes Forecast® magazine:


The term "504 Plan" refers to a plan developed to meet the requirements of a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (commonly referred to as "Section 504"). A 504 Plan sets out the actions the school will take to make sure the student with diabetes is medically safe, has the same access to education as other children, and is treated fairly. It is a tool that can be used to make sure that students, parents/guardians, and school staff understand their responsibilities and to minimize misunderstandings.
Take a look at our sample 504 Plan available below. It lists a broad range of services and modifications that are often needed by students with diabetes, ranging from kindergarteners to high school seniors. All plans should specify that school staff must be trained to recognize hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and to respond in accordance with the child's Diabetes Medical Management Plan.
However, each plan should be individualized to the specific needs, abilities, and medical condition of the individual student. It is important to only include provisions that are relevant to the specific child. For example, a section on self-management probably would not be included in a kindergartener's plan. But the ability to bring in a blood glucose meter during an exam is critical for a high school student.
Some school districts prefer to use their own 504 Plan form. This is perfectly fine as long as it contains language to appropriately meet all of the student's diabetes care needs at school. The content is what matters.
No one is excused. 86 million Americans have prediabetes. Take the test. Know where you stand.