The American Diabetes Association has recognized Marian Medical Center’s Diabetes Education Center for exceeding national standards for diabetes self-management education.
The only one of its kind in Northern Santa Barbara County, Marian’s diabetes education program received the same recognition in 2006. And according to the ADA, it continues to excel in providing excellent diabetes management instruction.
“Recognition by the American Diabetes Association guarantees that the local community is provided with a quality-driven diabetes education program,” Diabetes Education Center coordinator Sheri Etheredge said in a release to the media. “By taking advantage of the education opportunities Marian’s Diabetes Program offers, individuals will increase their ability to be in control of the disease and live a healthy life.”
People who seek care at the center are provided substantial information about the disease process and treatment options available. They’re also counseled on diabetes-related topics, such as changing behavioral patterns, nutrition and stress management, diabetes medications, and complications associated with the disease.
According to the American Diabetes Association, there are 20.8 million people—approximately 7 percent of the U.S. population—who have diabetes. And while an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed, there are another 6.2 million people who aren’t aware they have the disease.
Additionally, many people first learn they have the disease after receiving treatment for one of its life-threatening complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, blindness, or nerve damage.
For more information about diabetes education and care, visit diabetes.org or call Marian Medical Center’s Diabetes Education Center at 739-3791.
This article appears in Dec 24-31, 2009.