Community Education
Diabetes Education Classes for the Community
Our Diabetes Education Program is a community-based program that provides patient education regarding the treatment and care of diabetes. Classes are open to both patients and their family members.Call (361) 857-2945 for registration information.
"Controlling Your Diabetes"
This diabetes self-management class, recognized by the American Diabetes Association, gives individuals a diabetes overview educating them on blood glucose monitoring, carbohydrate counting, meal planning, medication and insulin administration, the benefits of exercising, and the importance of preventing diabetes complications. Participants return for follow-up lab work every three months for one year. This class is for individuals diagnosed with Type I and Type II diabetes. Classes are held weekly with options that include a daylong class, a series of four 2-hour classes and classes in Spanish. Throughout the year, series classes are held at workplaces, churches or other selected locations.
"Controlling Your Gestational Diabetes"
Specifically for expectant mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes, this class offers all of the topics found in the traditional diabetes self-management class in a customized format to meet the special needs of mothers-to-be.
Family Night Support Group
These monthly events provide patients and family members with continued diabetes education. Each month past participants are invited to attend to hear a featured guest speaker and learn more about diabetes related topics.
Hyperlipidemia Class
This two-hour class educates patients on ways to help lower cholesterol and improve lipid profiles. The class promotes lifestyle changes to reduce modifiable risk factors for coronary artery disease, diet modification, physical activity, lifestyle habits and brief medication review. This class is offered by appointment only.
Care for your Kidneys Class
Our registered nurse conducts a one-hour class on the prevention of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Topics include the basic function of the kidney, five stages of kidney failure, and the definition and risk factors of CKD. Lab value results (GFR, serum creatinine, BUN, potassium, sodium and calcium), including the importance of knowing and maintaining healthy values, are also emphasized. This class is offered by appointment only.
Hypertension Class
Our registered nurse conducts a one-hour class educating patients about ways to help control blood pressure. The class promotes lifestyle changes such as diet modification, physical activity and lifestyle habits, to reduce risk factors. This class also includes discussion of complications associated with high blood pressure and a review of medications. This class is offered by appointment only.
"Healthy Living for Life!"
This program's primary goals are to educate the community on healthy lifestyles for the prevention of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers. Topics include chronic disease prevention, healthy eating advice, physical activity benefits, and behavior modification tips. Classes are offered at various work sites, schools and faith-based centers.
