November 22, 2016

Center for Healthy Living offering diabetes education resources

To raise awareness and educate community members about the prevalence of diabetes and its effects on those living with the disease, November is recognized as National Diabetes Awareness Month. However, the Center for Healthy Living recognizes that those with diabetes need ongoing support and resources all year long, and the center conveniently provides those things.

Suzanne Rossiter, registered nurse and certified diabetes educator at the Center for Healthy Living, has a unique connection with her clients as she is a Type 1 diabetic herself.

“Since I also live with the disease, I feel it helps me better connect with my clients and understand from a personal level where they are coming from," Rossiter says. "It can make a big difference in a client’s perspective to know that the medical professional they are working with literally knows what they mean when they talk about something related to diabetes.”

Rossiter works with clients to promote self-management to achieve individualized behavioral and treatment goals that optimize health outcomes and help them better manage their condition.

In addition to Rossiter, Ellen Welch, registered dietitian, is available to assist clients. Welch helps those with diabetes learn about proper food and nutrition choices, as following a diabetic diet can be challenging for some.

"In order to help clients better control their blood sugar, I offer guidance and help them make simple and sustainable changes to their diet,” Welch said. “Whether it's carb counting, meal planning, diabetes-friendly recipes or general nutrition questions, I am here to help."  

To provide additional resources in regards to diabetes education, the Center for Healthy Living offers its “Living with Diabetes” program. The primary objective of this 12-week, comprehensive program is to share essential education and support so participants can manage their condition, stay healthy and prevent complications. The program is open to those living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as well as those who have been identified as pre-diabetics.

The next “Living with Diabetes” program begins in early February and offers several options to fit a variety of schedules. Participants can choose from one of the following classroom sessions:

* Mondays, Feb. 6 through May 1, noon-1 p.m. or 2-3 p.m. 
* Thursdays, Feb. 9 through May 4, 8-9 a.m. or noon-1 p.m.

Registration deadline is Dec. 22, and pre-program assessments will begin Jan. 3. Specific details on the program, including meeting locations, will be shared closer to the registration date. Those who wish to register now or have any questions can call the center at 49-45505.

The center is open for provider appointments 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Friday. Lab hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For medical consultation after hours or on weekends, contact the Anthem NurseLine at 888-279-5449 or visit LiveHealth online for assistance.


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