Diabetes program puts patients in charge

By Rebecca Carpenter

Living Well With Diabetes is a program that allows people with diabetes to take on an active self-management role. A health-care team provides information, education, and encouragement along the way.  These eight-hour courses span two or three days, giving participants the chance to talk and pose questions to a variety of knowledgeable faculty, including  a podiatrist, dietitian, nurse, physical therapist, social worker, and some physicians. "Follow-up is critical, and our diabetes nurses work closely with the patient and healthcare provider to assist the patient in achieving excellent self-management skills," said Sue Barwick, registered nurse and certified diabetes educator at Mason General Hospital. Visits by a nurse and dietitian are course prerequisites.

Offered through Mason General Hospital's Diabetes Wellness Center, the Living Well With Diabetes program has existed since 1991. It has met the American Diabetes Association's national standards for diabetes self-management education since 2001. "Our mission is to provide the best individual quality diabetes self-management and prevention education services for people and their families in Mason County — while extending respect and compassion," said Barwick, R.N., who is also the coordinator of the Diabetes Wellness Center at MGH.  

The next session is scheduled for April 6 and 7, 2010 at MGH.  These classes require pre-registration, and diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans.  Additionally, free diabetes support groups are also available each month in Shelton and Allyn. Other available resources include individual and small-group classes with nurses and dietitians, plus monthly contracted services at the Skokomish Health Clinic.

For more information, call (360) 426-1611, extension 3301; or visit www.MasonGeneral.com.

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