National Kidney Foundation of Michigan

Leading the fight against kidney disease

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PATH (Personal Action Toward Health)

The PATH program helps people better manage their long-term health conditions while being led by two trained leaders, at least one of whom has a long-term health condition. Participants learn strategies to deal with pain, fatigue, and difficult emotions. Distance learning options for PATH include: video conference, self-led with phone support, and virtual learning online.

If you are interested in participating in a PATH workshop, or are interested in hosting or referring people to a workshop, please fill out the PATH Inquiry Form at the bottom of this page. Pre-registration is required.

What is it:

  • PATH is the Michigan name for the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program developed by Stanford University. PATH helps people better manage their long-term health conditions.
  • Six-week workshop, held once per week for around 2 1/2 hours.
  • Led by two trained leaders, at least one of whom has a long-term health condition.
  • Participants learn strategies to deal with pain, fatigue, and difficult emotions. Each week participants create personal action plans and set practical, achievable goals. 

​Who should participate:

  • Adults with chronic or ongoing health conditions including arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, emphysema, asthma, kidney disease, obesity, and depression.
  • Family members, friends, and caregivers of someone with a chronic condition are also encouraged to attend.
  • Caregivers interested in caring for their own health.

Types of PATH Workshops:

Format for PATH workshops:

  1.  Online: Better Choices Better Health
    • Log in on your own time to review weekly content and communicate with other participants and leaders on discussion boards.
    • Workshops consist of about 25 participants from across the country. Click here to learn more.
  2. Video conference/Virtual
    • Video sessions held once per week at scheduled times with a small group of participants.
    • Requires reliable internet connection and camera feature on computer, tablet, or phone.
    • Complete the PATH inquiry form to find out when one is starting.
  3. Toolkit with phone support
    • Self-directed, home learning with telephone support.
    • Toolkit sent by mail and calls held once per week with a small group of participants to review key weekly activities.
    • Complete the PATH inquiry form to find out when one is starting.
  4. In-person workshops (currently postponed)
    • Group of 8-12 participants and 2 leaders.
    • Held at a variety of community locations over six weeks, once per week.
    • Complete the PATH inquiry form to find out when one is starting.

What are the benefits of participating?

  • increased connection to others
  • fewer symptoms
  • better communication with physicians
  • a greater sense of control over your health
  • increased physical activity
  • better general health compared to those who had not participated in the workshop

The NKFM is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation in its programs. To request accommodation contact the PATH team at least ten days in advance at: 800-482-1455 or e-mail at PATHPrograms@nkfm.org.​​

Path Workshop Topics: Six-Session Course

  • Self-management and chronic health conditions
  • Using your mind to manage symptoms
  • Getting a good night’s sleep
  • Action Plans
  • Problem solving
  • Dealing with difficult emotions
  • Physical activity and exercise
  • Preventing falls
  • Making decisions
  • Pain and Fatigue Management
  • Better Breathing
  • Healthy eating
  • Communication skills
  • Medication usage
  • Making informed treatment decisions
  • Dealing with depression
  • Working with your health care professional
  • Future Plans

Generous Program Funders:

  • Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
  • Area Agency on Aging – 1B
  • Area Agency on Aging  – The Senior Alliance
  • Michigan Department of Health and Human Services – ACLS Bureau
  • University of Michigan Transplant Center
  • Beaumont Health
  • Ascension SE Michigan

PATH Inquiry Form

Thank you for your interest in the Personal Action Toward Health (PATH) program. Please fill out the form below and someone will reach out to you shortly with information about upcoming workshops.

Which PATH program/s are you interested in? (Click all that apply.)






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LuAnn Thompson

“I just want to thank [leaders] for the Diabetes PATH sessions that were a game changer for me.  I was becoming so neurotic about what foods to eat, what not to eat and what raised my blood sugars even the slightest bit that I was driving my family crazy.   This class had such a calming effect not only by hearing that it’s normal to struggle with these things but your reassuring manner did wonders.  It also got me motivated to get moving even more.  The making of action plans got me in the habit of already planning for the winter months and staying motivated.

Most of all, it has made me realize I control diabetes and my health it’s not holding me hostage or controlling me.”