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Diabetes Center Expands Offerings To Battle Disease of Epidemic Proportion
Diabetes is now such a threat to America’s health that even the “Oprah Winfrey Show” devoted a program to the topic recently.
Specifically, regarding the majority of individuals seen at the hospital, Hispanics and African Americans, data reflecting the mounting incidence of the disease are particularly troublesome, considering the ever-rising prevalence of obesity nationwide: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates the prevalence of obesity ranges from 21 to 50 percent. However, 80-90 percent of all patients – including children – receiving treatment at The Diabetes Center at Saint Anthony Hospital are obese.
Here at Saint Anthony Hospital, the range of services targeted to people with diabetes – or those dangerously headed towards that diagnosis – has never been greater.
The Diabetes Center at Saint Anthony Hospital is recognized by the American Diabetes Association and is one of only 20 such recognized programs in the State of Illinois, according to Program Manager Patrick Conlon, MSN, FNPBC, PNP-BC, CDE, FAANP. This stamp of approval from the American Diabetes Association is significant to both physicians and patients; it ensures that the program meets all standards for education and clinical competencies. Patrick points out that
The Center’s patient satisfaction rate now is 100 percent and has never dipped below 96 percent.
Importantly, the recognition also makes it possible for services provided at Saint Anthony Hospital to qualify for reimbursement by Medicare and other insurers, who often use Medicare as a guide when calculating payment for services rendered.
“We’d like a larger number of physicians to refer their patients to us,” says Patrick, particularly primary care physicians, whose tight clinic schedules may limit the time they can devote to issues of diabetes. “We can provide the special attention needed to manage the disease and focus on specific issues.”
Recent developments at the Diabetes Center indicate its growing reach:
- Anna Garcia, RD,LD, CDE, just recently added that last accreditation (Certified Diabetes Educator) to her signature. To earn her new status, Anna passed an certification test after devoting herself to long hours of self-study as well as 1,000 hours of diabetes education with patients over the past two years. “My CDE assures referring physicians that I am capable and knowledgeable in the field of diabetes and nutrition. It advances my creditability.”
The CDE credential is highly regarded by healthcare professionals involved in diabetes education and diabetes clinical practice. Anna holds a B.S. in Human Nutrition from University of Illinois at Chicago as well as a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Champaign.
- Recently introduced classes for people with diabetes, focused on grocery shopping for optimal health, now are offered through the Center for Diabetes at Pete’s Fresh Market, 2526 West Cermak Road. Free pick up from patients’ homes, with transportation to the hospital and to the market, is available – as is return transportation from Pete’s Market (groceries in tow) to patients’ homes. The Center’s Registered Dietitian will accompany patients to Pete’s Market, via hospital transportation, in order to answer any questions that arise during shopping sessions.
- A diabetes and obesity program will soon launch. Participants will learn about the importance of exercise, particularly cardiovascular exercise. Exercise balls, resistance bands and other tools will be demonstrated and proper diet, can: improve overall health; reduce weight; lessen the risk of both diabetes and cardiovascular disease; enhance stamina; and protect against high cholesterol while controlling blood sugar.”
practiced. Says Patrick, “I will be demonstrating how exercise, along with
For information or to schedule appointments, contact the Center for Diabetes at (773) 484-4498.
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