Diabetes
Diabetes Education and Self-Management Program
“Education and support services for people at-risk for diabetes, people with diabetes and their families”
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes occurs when a person has too much glucose (or sugar) in their bloodstream and not enough insulin to bring the level of sugar down to a level that is healthy for their body.
There are four types of Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, Prediabetes and Gestational Diabetes). Type 1 Diabetes occurs in childhood and happens when the body does not produce insulin. Type 2 Diabetes happens when insulin production slows and/or the body is not able to use the insulin that is produced. Type 2 usually occurs in adults.
Why is diabetes education so important?
Diabetes education and self-management is important because it empowers a person to take control of their diabetes care and needs. North Country offers classes and educational opportunities that give you the tools to obtain diabetes health and wellness.
Group Classes
North Country offers beneficial group diabetic classes throughout the year.
Group class topics may include:
* Hypo/Hyperglycemia management
* Skin/Foot care
* The importance of physical activity
* Medical nutrition therapy
* Sick day management
* Self blood sugar monitoring
* Handling blood sugar patterns
* Diabetic Medications
What services does North Country HealthCare offer?
North Country provides all the services outlined in the American Diabetes Association’s Standards of Care. These standards include:
* Annual foot checks
* On-site Dental Clinic
* On-site hemoglobin A1c testing
* Cholesterol monitoring
* Instruction and support in sugar testing
* Monitoring of blood pressure
* Case management
* Eye exam
* On-site behavioral health counseling
* Assistance in stopping smoking
North Country offers quarterly special events called Diabetes Days. Diabetes Days are a one-stop comprehensive visit in which a diabetic patient receives all the Standards of Care over this 2-3 hour appointment. Health professionals at a Diabetes Day include: a doctor, pharmacist, registered dietitian, ophthalmologist, dental hygienist, podiatrist, behavioral health counselor and a health educator.
Necessary lab work is also completed during this clinic visit.
How do I learn more about classes or support groups?
Please contact our Diabetes Educators at 928.213.6122 or 928.213.6110 for more information. You can also set up an appointment to discuss any concerns you have about living with diabetes. Handouts are available in English and Spanish.
Friends and/or family members are welcome to attend all diabetes education classes.
Qualifications? Eligibility?
Any individual who has been diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes is eligible to be a part of the Diabetes Collaborative at North Country HealthCare. Education is also provided for the following; Gestational Diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy), weight loss, weight management, nutrition counseling, self-management of blood sugar, glucometer teaching, and more. Therefore any individual in need of these services or forms of education can receive them through the North Country HealthCare Diabetes Program.
For more information contact Jennifer Noenicks or Derik Whipple
928.213.6122 or 928.213.6110
Program Hours:
Monday – Friday • 8am – 5pm
