The Diabetes Center of Thibodaux Regional offers comprehensive diabetes services, instruction and support to hundreds of inpatients and outpatients, as well as their families and loved ones.

Diabetes is a leading cause of disability and greatly increases the risk of death from heart attack and stroke. As a result of advanced medical treatments and self-management education programs, people with diabetes may be spared many complications and premature death. Education is the cornerstone for diabetes management, focusing on patients' readiness to learn and implementing strategies for lifestyle changes for healthier and happier lives.

DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

The Diabetes Self-Management Program at Thibodaux Regional offers comprehensive diabetes services and instruction to inpatients and outpatients as well as their families and loved ones. Instruction is offered primarily to children 14 and older, and adults with Type I, Type II or gestational diabetes. The program features two staff members who are certified diabetes educators by the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators.

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body does not produce or use insulin effectively.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS?

Type 1:

Type 2:

WHAT SERVICES DOES THE DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM PROVIDE?

WHAT ABOUT EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS?

Educational group sessions are held along with individual meal planning sessions, both of which are integral components for diabetes self-management. For patients requiring more individualized instruction, one-to-one counseling also can be provided. Children, inpatients and women with gestational diabetes always receive one-to-one counseling. Upon completion of the educational sessions, patients are seen for a follow-up visit to evaluate behavioral goal achievement.

HOW DO I ENTER THE PROGRAM?

To enter the program, a patient must receive a referral from his or her physician. The patient then meets with Thibodaux Regional's diabetes nurse educator and registered dietitian for an initial interview. During this interview, the nurse and dietitian will identify any special learning needs the patient may have, as well as formulate the patient's individualized educational plan depending on his or her specific needs.

ADA NATIONAL RECOGNITION

The Diabetes Self-Management Program of Thibodaux Regional is nationally recognized by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The ADA Education Recognition effort is a voluntary process which assures that approved education programs have met the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs. Programs that achieve recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide state-of-the-art information about diabetes management for participants.

As a participant in the Diabetes Self-Management Program at Thibodaux Regional, the participant will be taught self-care skills that will promote better management of his or her diabetes treatment regimen. As an approved education program, the Diabetes Self-Management Program covers the following topics as needed:

For more information about diabetes treatment call (985) 493-4769.