CapitalCare Medical Group Diabetes Education Program

Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body does not use sugar effectively for energy. Normally, insulin helps sugar enter the body’s cells to provide energy for daily activities. With diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin, or it is unable to use insulin properly. A person with diabetes must keep the level of sugar in the blood within the normal range to prevent complications that can cause blindness, heart disease, kidney disease or poor circulation.

Approximately 17 million people in the United States (about 6% of the population) have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Nearly one third of those with diabetes are not aware that they have the disease. The typical symptoms of diabetes are frequent urination, extreme thirst and hunger, blurry vision and unexplained weight loss. If you notice these symptoms, call your health care practitioner today.

CapitalCare Medical Group offers a comprehensive diabetes education program taught and directed by a Nurse Practitioner who is a Certified Diabetes Educator, with over 13 years of experience as a diabetes nurse educator. The program staff also includes Registered Dietitians.

Program participants learn to monitor their blood sugar levels, to balance food, medication and exercise, and to manage and prevent the complications of diabetes. In addition, coping strategies for better living with diabetes are emphasized. Instruction is offered in an individual or group setting.

Specialized programs include:

Insulin pump program – Receive instruction from a certified pump trainer on how to use the system of continuous insulin delivery.

Gestational Diabetes Program - For women who develop diabetes during pregnancy.

Pediatric Program – For children with diabetes, their caretakers and family members.

For more information about CapitalCare Medical Group’s Diabetes Education Program, call 518-452-1337, option 1. The cost of diabetes self-management training is covered by most health insurance plans. Contact your health insurance carrier for details.