In this prospective, randomized, non blinded, one center (University hospital) trial, 60 patients (28 with type 1 and 32 with type 2 diabetes) with a mean duration of diabetes of 22.5 ± 11.7 years were randomly assigned to group (6 patients per group) or individual usual care for one year. Primary end-point included change in Hba1c and visits to out-patients clinics, secondary endpoint included change in body mass index, blood pressure levels, waist circumference, non HDL Cholesterol, diabetes related and quality of life questionnaires and hospitalizations.

in the intervention arm patients attended 4 preplanned group visits in the study year and the empowerment model was used in the group care visits.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes
• Fluency in Hebrew
• Attendance at least for the second time at the diabetes clinic
• Follow up of at least one year by a general practitioner
• Willingness to participate in the study and to give informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Uncontrolled psychiatric diseases
• Active cancer
• Pregnancy