What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease marked by high levels of sugar in the blood. The most recent statistics indicate an estimated 8.3% of Americans have some form of diabetes.
How can diabetes education help me?
While the number of people with diabetes continues to increase, so does the understanding of the disease. At Community Memorial Hospital, we want to pass that knowledge on to you. Our Diabetes Education Program has been developed to equip you to manage your diabetes through diet, exercise, medication, and blood glucose monitoring. Our dietitian, nurse, and pharmacist can answer many of the questions you may have about your diagnosis, including:
- How often should I check my blood sugar?
- How does food affect my blood sugar?
- Do I have to give up sweets?
- How do I treat a low blood sugar?
- What are the side effects of my diabetes medication?
- What is a healthy blood sugar level?
- How does exercise impact my sugar levels?
- How can I prevent complications related to my diabetes?
What is included in the program?
When you enroll in CMH’s Diabetes Education program, you can expect to receive up to 10 hours of diabetes education and training. This consists of an initial assessment, group classes, and may include additional one-on-one training for insulin or other needs, as indicated by your physician. All participants will be provided with a diabetes informational manual, educational resources, product samples, and a free glucose meter (while supplies last).
Does my insurance pay for diabetes classes?
Diabetes Education at CMH received recognition status from the American Diabetes Association in September 2010. Recognized Diabetes Education programs are covered under most insurance policies, including Medicare. We are more than happy to help you determine if your insurance plan will pay for classes.
How do I sign up?
Anyone interested in taking diabetes classes can sign up one of three ways:
-
Ask your CMH physician for a referral for Diabetes Education.
-
Call our dietitian at (419) 542-5565.
-
Email diabetes@cmhosp.com.