With diabetes affecting an estimated 8 percent of the population, Thompson Health is offering self-management classes on a monthly basis.
These group classes, which require a physician referral, are facilitated by a registered dietitian and a registered nurse certified as a diabetes educator. The classes each consist of two, three-hour sessions held on the same day with a lunch provided in between.
Session 1 covers issues such as learning to live with diabetes, the basics of healthy eating, coping with stress and physical activity. Session 2 addresses oral medications, insulin, managing/monitoring blood glucose, personal health habits and long-term complications.
Offered on both Thursdays and Saturdays – on an alternating basis – classes are held on Thompson Health’s main campus at 350 Parrish St. in Canandaigua. They are covered by most health insurances, with participants responsible for a co-pay. A sliding fee schedule and a scholarship fund are available for those without insurance. Spouses or significant others are welcome to attend, free of charge.
Upcoming classes are scheduled for the following dates:
· Thursday, April 18, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
· Saturday, May 18, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
· Thursday, June 20, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
For more information or to register for a class, call (585) 396-6233. Referrals from primary care physicians can be faxed to (585) 396-6915.
Thompson also offers individual consultations as well as a free support group for people with Type 2 diabetes. For information about this group, held the third Wednesday of each month, call (585) 396-6233.