The Houston Northwest Medical Center diabetes self-management education program has been awarded continued Recognition from the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The program was originally Recognized in October of 2002.

Self-management education is an essential component of diabetes treatment. The participant in an ADA Recognized program is taught, as needed, self-care skills that will promote better management of his or her diabetes treatment regimen. All approved education programs cover the following topics as needed: diabetes disease process; nutritional management; physical activity; medications; monitoring; preventing, detecting, and treating acute complications; preventing, detecting and treating chronic complications through risk reduction; goal setting and problem solving; psychological adjustment; and preconception care, management during pregnancy, and gestational management.

Assuring high-quality education for patient self-care is one of the primary goals of the Education Recognition program. Association’s Education Recognition Certificate ensures that educational programs have met the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs. These Standards were developed and tested under the auspices of the National Diabetes Advisory Board in 1983 and were revised by the diabetes community in 1994 and 2000.

Programs apply for Recognition voluntarily. Programs that achieve Recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide participants with comprehensive information about diabetes management. “The process gives professionals a national standard by which to measure the quality of services they provide,” comments Lois Heckart, RN, CDE, Coordinator of the Program. Education Recognition status is verified by an official certificate from ADA and is awarded for three years.

According to the ADA, there are 20.8 million people in the United States, or 7% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately 6.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware that they have the disease.

Dedicated to providing quality care for patients affected by Diabetes, the Diabetes Self Management Education Program at Houston Northwest Medical Center offers comprehensive classes offered on an outpatient basis. The program offers counseling, classes and support groups to improve self-care skills of people with diabetes and enhance the overall quality of their life. It is designed to help participants learn how to make informed choices in daily living, promote overall wellness and reduce the risk of complications from diabetes. Participation in the program requires an order from your doctor and may be covered by insurance plans.

To learn more about the great things happening at Houston Northwest Medical Center visit www.hnmc.com or call 281-580-0000.