The ACMC Diabetes Education Program offers individual consultation, group classes, educational programs and support to assist you in managing your diabetes.
In many cases, you can control your diabetes through better nutrition, a healthy weight, physical activity and regular checkups with your healthcare team. Sometimes medication is also necessary, which your healthcare provider will determine. Medication, if prescribed by your doctor or nurse practitioner, is a crucial component of diabetes management and should be taken as directed.
Remember that what, when and how much you eat, exercise and monitor are important factors in managing diabetes. The ACMC Diabetes Education Program can help you develop and follow a plan based on your individual needs.
Diabetes Education Program
ACMC's diabetes team of registered nurses, dietitians and pharmacists work closely with you and your doctor to provide comprehensive support, including:
- One-on-one teaching of meal planning, diet modification and weight control.
- Instruction for diabetes care tasks and pattern management.
- Group classes for self-management skills and living healthy.
The ACMC diabetes team is ready to help you manage your diabetes and answer any questions you may have. Simply contact the ACMC Diabetes Education Program at 440.994.7596 or diabetes@acmchealth.org.
People with uncontrolled diabetes or who have had a change in medications or treatments should see their doctor at least every one to three months. People with controlled diabetes should be seen at least every three to six months. More frequent visits may be necessary if your blood sugar is not controlled or if complications of diabetes are worsening.
Generally, your doctor needs to know how well your diabetes is controlled and whether complications of diabetes are starting or getting worse. Therefore, at each visit, provide your doctor with your home blood sugar monitoring record and report any symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
Your doctor also should be informed of any changes in your diet, exercise or medicines and of any new illnesses you may have developed. Tell your doctor if you have experienced any symptoms of eye, nerve, kidney or cardiovascular problems such as:
- Blurred vision.
- Chest pain.
- Numbness or tingling in your feet.
- Shortness of breath.
- Persistent hand, feet, face or leg swelling.
- Numbness or weakness on one side of your body.
- Cramping or pain in the legs.
- Unusual weight gain or weight loss.
At each visit, your weight and blood pressure should be measured. Your eyes, feet, and insulin injection sites should also be examined at each visit.
With your physician's referral, outpatient services and education may be reimbursable. Please note that your individual insurance policy defines the extent of your coverage.
If you have any questions regarding insurance, contact the ACMC Diabetes Education Program at 440.994.7598 or diabetes@acmchealth.org.
- Follow a balanced meal plan and see your dietitian at least once a year.
- Aim to exercise at least five times a week for 30 minutes a session. Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program.
- Follow your medicine schedule as prescribed by your doctor.
- Know what medicines (brand and generic names) you are taking and how they work.
- Test your blood glucose regularly, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- If you have any signs of infection, call your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Practice good foot and skin care.
- Do not smoke.
- Try to manage stress as best as you can.