When a person receives a disease’s diagnosis, it becomes paramount to gain comprehensive understanding of the condition, its underlying causes, and potential methods of control. Rushing into too many medications without this essential knowledge can lead to a phenomenon known as polypharmacy, where individuals may end up taking multiple medications simultaneously, often with adverse consequences.

Recognizing the significance of patient education in disease management, Dr. Guruprasad Udupi established the Dialife Diabetes Center. Its distinctive feature is a dedicated education sessions where in patients are provided with comprehensive education about their conditions before any medications are introduced. This proactive approach enables patients to better comprehend the root causes and effects of their illnesses, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and avoid the risk of complications associated with polypharmacy.

Role of Physician as an Educator
Back in 2009, Dr. Guruprasad established the Dialife Diabetes Center, a place where diabetes management takes on a holistic approach. With just two rooms, one for a diabetologist and the other for a dietitian, the center began its journey. But the heart of the center was the specially designed classroom where patients received education about managing their condition. This raised a critical question who would educate these patients which marked the beginning of Dr.Guruprasad's involvement in the National Diabetes Educators program.

Collaborating with the Indian Medical Association and Dr. Mohan's Diabetes Center in Chennai, Dr. Guruprasad played a pivotal role in the National Diabetes Educators program. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to train paramedical professionals, including physicians, nurses, laboratory staff, and dietitians, to become proficient diabetes educators. Today, many of these trained individuals work in hospitals, continuing the legacy of patient education.

Preserving Noble Values
The landscape of healthcare has changed in recent years with corporate entities increasingly taking over the sector. The noble profession of medicine has transitioned into a full-fledged business model. In this transformation, the core values that once defined medicine, such as genuine sympathy and empathy, are often overshadowed. Dr. Guruprasad says, "Despite remarkable technological advancements and the adoption of robotic surgeries, the essential principles that should be integral to medicine are at risk of fading away".

Dialife Diabetes Center stands as a hope amidst the proliferation of diabetes centers. Many diabetes patients are bombarded with numerous medications, a situation termed 'polypharmacy'. Unlike many centers, Dr. Guruprasad's practice places a strong emphasis on education as the primary intervention. Instead of immediately increasing medication doses, patients are invited to education sessions to uncover the underlying causes of their condition. This patient centered approach often yields alternative solutions, reducing the need for excessive medications.

Challenges in the Digital Age
In the digital age, diabetologists face two significant challenges. The proliferation of online laboratories has led to issues like delayed processing of blood samples, potentially resulting in inaccurate readings. Online pharmacies pose another challenge, as patients receive medications at home, often without verifying their prescription, risking incorrect drugs. Dr. Guruprasad calls for strict regulations and standardized guidelines to ensure the quality and accuracy of services provided by online laboratories and pharmacies.

Innovations in Diabetology
The field of diabetology has witnessed significant technological advancements. Continuous blood glucose monitoring, insulin pumps, novel insulin formulations and convenient once-a-day options have revolutionized diabetes management. These innovations, while promising, may come with higher costs, but they signify substantial progress in the field

Acknowledging Excellence
Dr. Guruprasad's commitment to patient education and innovative approaches has earned him several prestigious awards and recognitions, including the Parimala Puraskar, the Young Diabetic Educator Award, and the title of the Most Promising Diabetologist by the Time’s group. These accolades underscore his dedication and the positive impact he has made on diabetes care, serving as an inspiration for healthcare professionals and patients alike.