Feeling Your Best
You may have been referred to Spectrum Health Diabetes Education Services by your doctor. Or, you may have been diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes-and you want to learn more. Ask your doctor about a referral for education. Your health and well-being are in your hands. We want you to not only live with diabetes but to live well. We can help you learn what you need to know to feel your best.
"Patient education is an important first step to managing diabetes life-long. An introductory class, followed up by refresher courses as needed, teaches patients how to control diabetes. Spectrum Health Diabetes Education Services offers classes that are evidence-based, practical and informative, so that a patient can take an active role in self care. An educated patient plays an important role in the overall care management team."
- Kevin J. McCormick, MD
Diabetes can lead to serious health problems. It can do major damage to the heart, eyes, nerve endings, kidneys and feet. Risks for these problems are much lower if blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels are well managed. Diabetes Education Services will show you how to lower your risks and stay healthy.
Become an Expert in Your Own Care
No one is more important in managing diabetes than you. Diabetes Education Services helps you to learn how to manage your health. Our program will help you:
Got Diabetes? Get Educated!
Group classes, one-on-one training sessions and personal visits are available. Classes are offered at several locations. Topics in group and individual classes include:
- Understanding diabetes or pre-diabetes
- Blood sugar checks
- Meal planning, recipes and reading food labels
- Medications and how to use them
- Reducing health risks and healthy lifestyle changes
What Class Members Say About Learning to Manage Their Diabetes
Read how Greg changed from a reluctant participant to someone who strongly values the benefits of diabetes education.
Other participants have shared these comments:
"Education is powerful! I knew I had to educate myself as my diagnosis came as a total surprise. I feel I am healthier than I have ever been in spite of the fact that I am living with diabetes. I continue to take advantage of the Diabetes Education Services to learn and remain as healthy as I can be."
"I came here at a loss, with no knowledge and a lot of fear. The educators were awesome and very helpful."
"The instructors were great! It was obvious they wanted to help us. The class helped me focus and commit myself to better managing my diet and exercise regimen."
The Power of Eating Right
Medical nutrition therapy appointments with a registered dietitian are available to help you learn about better meal planning. You'll learn tips on how to shop for healthier foods, how to cook to manage blood sugar, how to keep your favorite foods in your diet by making a few changes-even how to enjoy dining at your favorite restaurant.
Our Quality
Spectrum Health Diabetes Education Services is certified by the Michigan Department of Community Health and accredited by the American Association of Diabetes Educators.
Referrals and Insurance
A doctor referral is needed to make an appointment. Referral form information is provided at the links to each location below. Diabetes self-management training is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurers. Nutrition education may be billed as medical nutrition therapy and is covered by some insurance plans. For those who qualify, we offer financial assistance for diabetes education.
Locations
Diabetes Education - Grand Rapids
Healthier Communities
665 Seward Ave. NW
(616) 267-2626 or (877) 495-2626
Diabetes Education - Grand Rapids
South Pavilion
80 68th St. SE
(616) 267-2626 or (877) 495-2626
Diabetes Education - Grand Rapids
West Pavilion
6105 Wilson Ave. SW
(616) 267-2626 or (877) 495-2626
Diabtes Education - Greenville
United Lifestyles
407 S. Nelson
(616) 754-6185 or (800) 406-4551
Diabetes Education - Reed City
219 E. Church
(231) 832-8502
|
