Certified Diabetes Educator
Program Overview
The program provides evidence-based diabetes education and support for patients living with diabetes.
Appointment Details
Individual appointments are available with your primary care provider or the Diabetes Nurse Educator which may include:
- A focused “diabetes” visit: insulin dosing and sliding scale, injection technique, monofilament check of feet, blood pressure, weight management, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, macro and microvascular complications and how to manage
- Recent lab work will be reviewed: what the numbers mean and the target ranges for: A1C, RBS, FBS
- Discussion about timely diabetes topics: ultra-long basal insulin, flash glucose monitoring systems: Freestyle Libre #1 and #2 versions, continuous glucose monitoring systems: Dexcom G6, new medications for diabetes: GLP-1, SGLT2 meds
- Management ideas and strategies will be discussed: compassionate use programs for insulin needles, insulin and medications. Healthy lifestyle behaviours, both dietary and activity, focusing on Canada's Food Guide, low glycemic index food, how to read food labels
- Joint appointments with MVFHT Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator are available.
- Spouse or family members are welcome to attend with clients
Appointments must be booked in advance. It is not a drop-in service.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body either cannot produce enough insulin or cannot properly use the insulin it provides. Insulin is a hormone that controls the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which can damage organs, blood vessels, and nerves. The body needs insulin to use sugar as an energy source.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and kills the insulin releasing cells in the pancreas. As a result, sugar builds up in the blood instead of being used as energy.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use the insulin that is produced or does not make enough insulin. As a result, sugar builds up in the blood instead of being used as energy.
For more information
Healthy Living resource: https://www.diabetes.ca/diabetes-and-you/healthy-living-resources
Visit the link to the Canadian Diabetes Association - http://www.diabetes.ca/