Diabetes Education
DIABETES EDUCATION CENTER
838-3541
Continuing Education is a vital component in diabetes treatment. Studies show that self-care programs for diabetes management lead to a reduction in diabetes-related health problems.
The St. Vincent's East Diabetes Education Program meets national standards defining quality diabetes patient education services and is recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Educators at MCE include three Registered Nurses Certified in Diabetes Education and one Registered Dietician Certified in Diabetes Education.
Curriculum
The Diabetes Education Center provides individual and group instruction in the following areas:
- Diabetes Overview
- Stress and Pschological Adjustment
- Family Involvement and Social Support
- Nutrition
- Exercise and Activity
- Medication
- Monitoring and Use of Results
- Relationships Between Nutrition, Exercise, Medication and Blood Glucose Levels
- Prevention, Detection and Treatment of Chronic Complications
- Foot, Skin and Dental Care
- Strategies for Behavior Change, Goal Setting, Risk Factor Reduction and Problem Solving
- Benefits, Risks and Management Options for Improving Glucose Control
- Preconception Care, Pregnancy and Gestational Diabetes
- Use of Healthcare Systems and Community Resources
Support Group
The St. Vincent's East Diabetes Support Group meets weekly with programs planned according to the following schedule:
- Twice each month for continuing education
- Twice each month for support and networking
- Call us at 205-838-3541 for additional information about the services and support group available through the St. Vincent's East Diabetes Education Center.
Referrals
Referrals to the St. Vincent's East Diabetes Education Center must be made by the patient's physician.
Insurance Coverage
The services of the St. Vincent's East Diabetes Education Center are covered by many insurance companies, including Medicare. Patients should ask insurance providers if their policy covers Diabetes Skills and Self Management Training.
Patients in the program will receive:
- A blood glucose meter and instructions on use.
- Assistance in obtaining a durable medical equipment supplier.
- Directions to the Diabetes Education Center
The St. Vincent's East Diabetes Education Center is located on the first floor of Medical Center East, 50 Medical Park East Drive Birmingham, AL 35235.
Walk directly from the St. Vincent's East first floor atrium towards the main hospital elevators. Go left at the elevators down a short hallway to the Diabetes Education Center.
For More Information
Call the St. Vincent's East Diabetes Education Center at 205-838-3541 or e-mail to karla.mcclellan@stvhs.com.
This program has been awarded recognition by the American Diabetes Association for accordance with the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs.
Diabetes in Alabama
Alabama ranks in the top five states in the estimated prevalence of diabetes.
Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death in Alabama
Almost 500,000 Alabamians know they have diabetes.
Another 200,000 Alabamians may have diabetes without knowing it.
In 1998 in Alabama, diabetes accounted for 8,500 hospital stays, 44,125 hospital patient days, 34,000 emergency room visits and 38,000 outpatient visits.
(Source: Alabama Department of Public Health)
Parking
All parking is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Lots are located outside all hospital entrances. Patients and visitors are cautioned not to park in reserved areas or certain designated areas. Please be sure to lock your car. Please do not leave valuables in your car. If you need assistance to your car, you may call the Security Department at 838-3911.
Payment Arrangements
Hospital arrangements not covered by your insurance, such as deductable and co-pay, are due at pre-registration/registration. Upon discharge, all remaining unpaid charges may be made at the Cashier’s Office located in the Main Atrium. We accept cash, personal check, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express and debit cards. You will receive a separate bill from your physician or any consulting physicians. Please ask about how to participate in our Courtesy Discharge program. If you anticipate difficulty in paying your bill, do not have insurance coverage or are interested in help with financing your account through a medical assistance program, please contact our financial counselor located on campus in the registration area. |
