Diabetes Management Program

The Diabetes Management Program at Jewish Hospital & St. Mary’s HealthCare will help you learn the basics of diabetes self-management. The program focuses on seven key behaviors that can help you successfully control your diabetes. They include:

• Healthy eating and meal planning
• Exercise
• Understanding the use of insulin or diabetes pills
• Learning to self-monitor your blood glucose (sugar)
• Foot care
• Urine testing for ketones
• Learning to cope with your illness through education and support

Individual Education

Our team provides education sessions for you and your family that include:

• Small group classes
• Individual consults with a registered nurse and a dietitian, who are certified diabetes educators
• Follow-up visits

Personalized Care

Our staff of diabetes educators will assess all aspects of your diabetes and its impact on your lifestyle. You’ll learn the importance of managing your disease, health food choices and ways to design a meal plan that includes some of your favorite foods. You’ll also receive information on how medications work, how to incorporate more activity in your daily life, how to manage your sugar and how to monitor blood sugar using the latest technology.

Who is Your Diabetes Educator?

Diabetes educators are nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, doctors, exercise physiologists and social workers, who specialize in the care and education of people with diabetes.

Think of your diabetes educator as a personal coach. Diabetes educators have a talent for assessing your particular needs and providing practical solutions. You may meet them one-on-one or in a class setting. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have had diabetes for a long time, a diabetes educator can work to help you master the ins and outs of managing diabetes.

Referrals and Insurance

Participants with diabetes must have a physician referral to attend this educational program. Medicare and most health insurance plans include coverage for diabetes education. For class information, to find a location hear you or to register for this program, call (502) 361-6025.