MHP to Host Diabetes Day Open House
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – In recognition of American Diabetes Month in November, Mahaska Health Partnership will host a free diabetes educational event on Thursday, Nov. 7 from 3:30 to 7:30 pm in the Cedar Bluff Learning Center (entrance #3) on their campus.
The event is being organized by MHP Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson, RN, CDE. According to Ferguson, the American Diabetes Association is collaborating with Mahaska Health Partnership to rally local Oskaloosa residents to take action and join others from across the nation in the fight to stop diabetes.
Attendees will have an opportunity to check out some of the newest technology available to help manage diabetes. In addition, healthcare professionals will be available to answer questions about life style changes and diabetes treatment. A Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) volunteer will be on hand to discuss insurance and diabetes needs related to supplemental insurance benefits to look for.
Ten minute presentations will take place from 6:00 -7:00 pm Topics will include blood glucose monitoring, continuous glucose monitoring, when to start insulin and diabetes control with lifestyle changes.
“The goal of this event is for people with diabetes to get the information they need to live a healthier, more fulfilling life,” Ferguson said. “I have had success working with patients who are newly diagnosed, those who have been living with uncontrolled diabetes and even those with pre-diabetes.”
According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States live with diabetes, including approximately 1,563 in Mahaska County. An additional 79 million Americans are at high risk for diabetes.
“Whether we have met before or you are newly diagnosed, controlled diabetes can mean a better quality of life for you,” Ferguson stressed. “I encourage you to stop by with your questions at this event and learn about your options.”
Mahaska Health Partnership Diabetes Education is nationally certified by the American Diabetes Association as a program that offers high-quality education as an essential component of effective diabetes treatment. For more information about MHP’s Diabetes Education, contact Ferguson at 641.672.3422.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
