EPH Diabetes Self Management Service

Our comprehensive diabetes self-management program addresses several key components that empower individuals to control their blood glucose levels, prevent complications, and maintain overall health. These components work together to support individuals in managing their diabetes effectively.

•  Understanding Diabetes: Education about the nature of diabetes, including its causes, types (Type 1, Type 2, gestational), and how it affects the body.
• Disease Management: Information on how to manage diabetes, including understanding blood glucose levels, insulin or medication use, and the impact of lifestyle choices.

Updates or administration of recommended vaccines based on age and health history, such as flu shots, tetanus boosters, or travel vaccines.

• Regular Testing: Instruction on how to use a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to check blood glucose levels.
• Interpreting Results: Understanding how to interpret blood glucose readings and how they relate to diet, exercise, and medication.
• Tracking Trends: Keeping records of blood glucose levels to identify patterns and make informed adjustments to the management plan.

• Medication Adherence: Guidelines for taking prescribed medications or insulin as directed, including dosage and timing.
• Adjustments: How to adjust medication doses based on blood glucose levels, dietary intake, and physical activity.
• Side Effects: Awareness of potential side effects and interactions of diabetes medications.

•  Nutrition Education: Guidance on balanced eating, including understanding carbohydrate counting, portion control, and the role of different nutrients in blood glucose management.
• Meal Planning: Strategies for planning meals and snacks to maintain stable blood glucose levels.
• Healthy Choices: Tips for making healthy food choices, including choosing whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Exercise Recommendations: Information on the benefits of regular physical activity and how it affects blood glucose levels.
• Activity Planning: Developing an exercise plan that fits individual preferences, health status, and lifestyle.
• Monitoring Effects: Understanding how to monitor blood glucose levels before, during, and after exercise to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemi

• Healthy Weight Goals: Strategies for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, which can improve blood glucose control and overall health.
• Behavioral Techniques: Approaches for managing weight, such as mindful eating, portion control, and setting realistic goals.

• Stress Reduction Techniques: Methods for managing stress, such as relaxation exercising, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral strategies.
• Emotional Support: Access to counseling or support groups to address the emotional aspects of living with diabetes.

• Regular Check-Ups: Schedule for routine visits with healthcare providers to monitor diabetes management and address any complications.
• Screening Tests: Regular screenings for complications, such as eye exams, foot exams, and kidney function tests.

• Family and Friends: Involvement of family and friends in the management process for support and encouragement.
• Support Groups: Participation in diabetes support groups or online communities for additional resources, shared experiences, and motivation.

• Recognizing Symptoms: Education on recognizing symptoms of hypo- and hyperglycemia and knowing how to respond.
• Emergency Contact Information: Having a plan for emergencies, including knowing when and how to seek medical help.

• Goal Setting: Establishing short-term and long-term goals for diabetes management and health improvement.
• Problem-Solving: Developing skills to address challenges and make adjustments to the management plan as needed.

• Digital Tools: Use of apps and digital tools for tracking blood glucose, medication, and diet.
• Telehealth: Access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring for ongoing support and management.