The Diabetes Self-Management Education Program at McLaren Macomb Diabetes Counseling Center helps adults with diabetes take steps that will make them feel better and stay healthier. This program is recognized by the American Diabetes Association for meeting the National Quality Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education, and is certified by the State of Michigan Department of Community Health.
Program Core Education Focus
Through group and individual education sessions, patients, families and caregivers can gain the knowledge, support and technical skills they need to successfully manage their diabetes. They also learn to develop a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, medication, exercise and home blood sugar tests.
The education program helps adults with Type I, Type 2 or gestational diabetes who are seeking to improve the management of their diabetes, whether they are newly diagnosed or have had diabetes for a long time.
The Diabetes Self Management Program is a core part of diabetes treatment. Class sessions include an initial patient assessment, plus diabetes education and training. Instructors include registered dietitians and registered nurses who are certified by the National Certification Board of Diabetes Educators.
Class topics cover the most current information available to help patients learn how to control their blood glucose levels. Topics include:
- Understanding diabetes -- Yes, you can live well with diabetes
- Nutrition and effective meal planning
- Monitoring and managing your blood glucose/ medication management
- Making healthy choices - Getting and staying active and safe
- Reducing your risk of damage to your heart, kidney, eyes and other organs
- Sick Day management
Nutritional Counseling
Please call (586) 493-8500.
Other Patient-Centered Education:
- Diabetes Risk Test
- Gestational Diabetes Management - This individual session is designed for women who developed diabetes during pregnancy or who have type I or type II diabetes, and are pregnant. During a scheduled appointment patients receive instruction on blood glucose monitoring, healthy meal planning, and recommendations for lifestyle changes that promote the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy.
- Medical Nutrition Therapy - A Registered Dietician - is available by appointment to provide expert nutrition counseling for a managing a variety of conditions including diabetes, obesity, celiac disease, heart disease, kidney disease, and food allergies.
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring - A continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) is an FDA-approved device which uses an under the skin sensor that records blood sugar levels in tissue fluid throughout the day and night. A transmitter sends information about the user's glucose level via a wireless receiver in the user's insulin pump, which can then be downloaded on a personal computer or at the physician's office, where together the patient and doctor can make informed decisions about diabetic care and treatment.
- Insulin Administration - An insulin regimen is frequently required in the treatment of diabetes. Individual training is provided which cover insulin types, as well as insulin preparation and injection n be downloaded on a personal computer or at the physician's office, where together the patient and doctor can make informed decisions about diabetic care and treatment.
Physician Prescription and Insurance
If you have diabetes, ask your doctor if a diabetes self-management program is right for you. Medicare and other medical insurance providers require a prescription from your physician. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to verify your plan's coverage for a diabetes management program, education, or nutrition therapy. We are a participating provider with most insurance plans