Diabetes Education Program Receives ADA Recognition

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recently recognized Mon Health Medical Center Diabetes Education Program for providing high-quality, effective diabetes education.

The Association’s recognition assures that educational programs meet the national standards including knowledgeable health professionals who can assist participants in diabetes management.

“Diabetes is a prevalent disease in our community, state and across the nation,” said Andrea McCarty, Mon Health Medical Center’s Diabetes Education Program Coordinator. “But it is a manageable disease.  That’s why we’re here – to help people learn how to make better choices and maintain their quality of life.”

In West Virginia, 1 in 10 adults have diabetes – according to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.

  The Diabetes Education Program is designed for people who were recently diagnosed or who need to learn more about treatment options.

McCarty, a Certified Diabetes Educator, and Robin Redd, a Registered Dietitian, teach participants how to meal plan, increase their physical activity and manage their medications.

Curriculum consists of one-hour sessions in group or individual setting covering a variety of topics, including meal planning, stress management, how to look for patterns in blood glucose monitoring and problem solving.  Patients can register for any of the eight sessions that will best meet their needs, and the sessions can be scheduled in any order.

“We’re proud to once again receive the ADA recognition,” said McCarty. “It’s a testament that our education program is helping our participants lead better lives following a diabetes diagnosis.”

For more information about the Diabetes Education Program, call 304-598-1805.