Overview
Diabetes can be a stressful and challenging disease to manage, but the diabetes services team at DCMC supports patients by monitoring symptoms, preventing complications, and helping people live an active life. Research shows that people who participate in diabetes self-management training gain the knowledge and skills needed to make appropriate choices, improving their ability to control their diabetes.
Our team includes registered nurses and registered dietitians who hold the nationally recognized Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) credential. You and your diabetes educators will work together to design a plan of care to meet your specific needs. During your series of training sessions, you will gain the skills to make informed decisions about the day-to-day management of your diabetes. Our ADA recognized Diabetes education program training takes place in individual and/or group sessions.
Many people find family involvement and support helpful in managing their diabetes. Family members are encouraged to attend and participate in your training sessions so that you and your family will have the tools necessary to live a healthy life.
Sessions include information on:
- Diabetes and the latest concepts and technology in diabetes care
- Nutritional management
- Physical activity
- Blood glucose monitoring, record keeping and pattern identification
- Diabetes medications
- Prevention and treatment of high and low blood glucose (sugar)
- Control of blood glucose (sugar) during illness
- Risk reduction and prevention of diabetes complications
- Stress management
- Setting goals and making healthy behavior changes
We encourage you to speak with your primary care provider to obtain a referral for outpatient diabetes education. Fees are determined by the length of each individual program. Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance usually cover diabetes program fees if a physician orders the services. We encourage you to call your insurance provider to verify coverage for diabetes education appointments.