Nutrition
& Diabetes
Education Center
Diabetes Education and Prevention
Why do I need diabetes education?
In addition to being a Registered and Licensed Dietitian, Sharon Hawks is Certified Diabetes Educator. Her training and motivational skills will assist you in making the necessary changes to control your diabetes.
During counseling, you will be introduced to different strategies to meet your individual needs. Along with your referring physician, through close supervision, Sharon can help you develop a treatment plan to ensure your blood sugar goals are achieved.
When you receive diabetes education, you will see a number of positive results including improved blood sugar levels, weight loss, lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and a reduced risk of developing complications.
Since diet is considered the cornerstone of diabetes management,
the control of your blood sugar is achieved with a meal plan that caters to your individual food preferences, lifestyle and medication schedule coupled with exercise.
Diabetes Services offered: What is a Certified Diabetes Educator (C.D.E.)? When you are counseled by a CDE be assured that your are seeing a licensed or certified health professionals who has had a minimum of two years and 1000 hours of diabetes patient education. They work in a primary role as a diabetes educator and have passed the national certifying exam. CDE’s are required to receive continuing education to ensure they maintain their credentials. CDEs can walk you through the basics of diabetes self-management from start to finish.
Diabetes Self-Management Classes
This two group class education program is designed for individuals in all stages of diabetes. Whether you have been coping with diabetes for years or you’re newly diagnosed, this program will give you a greater understanding of the disease and how to control it through diet, exercise and improved self-management skills. The diabetes program follows the guidelines recommended by the American Diabetes Association in accordance with the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education. Evening and weekend classes are available. Fees are covered by most insurances, but a referral from your primary care physician may be needed for some insurance plans. One family member is always welcome to accompany participants to each session.
Individual Counseling
After attending the group education classes, individuals are scheduled for one-on-one counseling with the registered dietitian and/or certified diabetes educator. Appointments are available on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Limited hours are available on Saturdays. Fees are covered by most insurances. A referral from your primary care physician may be needed for some insurance plans.
