Topics Discussed

• Overview of the Disease of Diabetes
• Nutritional Management of Diabetes
• Learning to Cope with your Diabetes
• Benefits of Exercise
• Avoiding Acute and Chronic Complications
• Medications
• Self Monitoring
• National Standards of Care
• Health Maintenance/Lifestyle Changes
• Community Resources

Participants may be taught using group instruction, individual counseling or a combination of both.

What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting all ages. Individuals with all types of diabetes must learn self-management skills to effectively manage their disease. Making life-style changes can prevent or delay the complications associated with this disorder. By working with your healthcare team and taking charge of your diabetes, you can feel better and lower the risk of complications.
Self-management is the cornerstone of treatment.

Philosophy
We believe individuals should be active participants in their health care and are a vital part of the health care team. We also believe you should control your diabetes rather than letting your diabetes control you.

Coverage
In May 1997, the Texas Legislature passed a new law that improves insurance coverage for diabetes equipment, supplies and self-management education.

Location
Classes are offered in Stephenville at SMSC and in Granbury

Staff
Our program offers a highly skilled, professional staff. Classes are taught by
Jan Branch, R.N., C.D.E., Anita Butler, R.D.L.D., C.D.E., Pat George, R.D.L.D.
and Julie Tout, RN, each specializing in diabetes education. 

 Jan is a Registered Nurse and a certified diabetes educator, and the Director of the Diabetes program. She graduated from Tarleton State University and the University
of Texas at Arlington and has worked in the field of nursing for 26 years.

Anita is a Registered Licensed Dietitian and a certified diabetes educator. She graduated from Tarleton State University and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center with a degree in nutrition. Anita has been active in nutrition counseling for 10 years with a special interest in diabetes education.

Pat is a Registered Licensed Dietitian with 29 years of experience in teaching diabetics. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota.

Julie is a registered nurse with a background in cardiac rehab nursing. She is now expanding her expertise into diabetes education and is a graduate of Odessa College.

The office is staffed by Janice Reeves, who coordinates the scheduling and other activities of the program. Janice is a 12 year employee of SMSC.