Diabetes self-management programs recognized by the American Diabetes Association
Diabetes self-management programs recognized by the American Diabetes Association Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body is not using sugar and food properly. Usually this is caused by problems with the body’s insulin levels. If it is left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health problems such as heart, kidney, eye and nervous system damage.
Fortunately, there are many treatment options for people who have been diagnosed with diabetes. With proper treatment, people with diabetes can live healthy and happy lives. Diabetes is a condition that depends heavily on selfcare behaviors and habits to maintain health. All people with diabetes need a nutritional plan and an exercise plan. Many people may also require pills or insulin to help keep their glucose levels normal. The cornerstone of these healthy habits is known as "Diabetes Self-Management Education.” South Jersey Healthcare offers programs that will help you manage your own diabetes, whether you are newly diagnosed or have had diabetes a long time. We offer a variety of programs shown to lower blood glucose, cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Diabetes Self-Management Education can also help people to lose or gain weight.
Understanding Diabetes Lunch & Learn
South Jersey Healthcare hosts a free, two-part educational series called “Understanding Diabetes.” The first part of the series focuses on nutrition, while the second focuses on medications, exercise and self blood glucose monitoring. Both parts are held every month at the SJH Regional Medical Center in Vineland and SJH Elmer Hospital. All classes meet from noon to 1 p.m. and a free lunch is served. Although the programs are free, all participants must be pre-registered. For a schedule of classes and to register, please call (856) 641-7536.
Diabetes Support Group
South Jersey Healthcare also sponsors an on-going Diabetes Support Group at the Regional Medical Center. The group is facilitated by a certified diabetes educator and participants are welcome to discuss any topics related to diabetes care. Adults with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are encouraged to attend. The group meetings are generally an hour long and meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 2 p.m. at the SJH Regional Medical Center.
For more information, call (856) 641-7535.
SJH Diabetes Faculty
The SJH Diabetes Program consists of registered nurses, registered dieticians, exercise specialists, pharmacists, and behavioral health specialists. Our primary instructors are certified diabetes educators (CDE). A CDE is a healthcare provider with specialized education in the care of people with diabetes. They must pass a national certification examination and maintain their level of expertise with on-going education.
At South Jersey Healthcare, our CDEs are dedicated to helping patients by explaining complicated medical instructions and making them user-friendly. Whether you have been newly diagnosed with diabetes, or you have been living with the disease for many years, our caring professionals are here to help you.
South Jersey Healthcare’s diabetes self management programs have been awarded Recognition by the American Diabetes Association in accordance with the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Programs.
Recognized Education Program
The diabetes program at SJH is recognized by the ADA for providing quality education to people with diabetes. We follow stringent guidelines to be sure that you get the information that you need. Our program covers ten core areas such as nutrition, exercise, medications, self-blood glucose testing and many more. SJH offers two types of diabetes classes:
- Small Group Sessions
- Individual Sessions
Participants generally attend between three to seven sessions depending on the type of class desired, insurance guidelines, and the individual’s needs. A physician’s/health insurance referral is required. Diabetes education is a billable service that will be applied to your insurance. If you do not have insurance, please ask to speak with a program instructor. No one will be denied due to insurance status. Please call (856) 641-7535 for an appointment and current class schedule.