The Diabetes Education Department at Windham Community hospital provides a diverse spectrum of education to people with diabetes in our community. We offer individual counseling sessions to people with special needs and a Diabetes Class Series that encompasses all aspects of diabetes care. We also offer a monthly support group for the people of our community. Both a Registered Nurse and Registered Dietitians, who are also Certified Diabetes Educators, provide the education. Most of our services are reimbursable by Medicare and private insurance companies. The American Diabetes Association has recognized Windham Hospital's Diabetes Education Program since 1991. The program covers healthy eating, tips for beginning exercise, blood glucose testing, prevention of complications and discussions on changing your behaviors. One of the goals of our educational program is to provide the community with accurate information about living with diabetes.
Hours of operation:
8am - 4:30pm on most days but hours may vary depending upon the diabetes class schedules.
There are two sessions of the Diabetes Class Series offered each month, alternating morning, afternoon and evening hours. Please call for registration and more information..
Diabetes Updates is our monthly support group that meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 1 PM and 7 PM. Nor registration is required. For more information, please contact the Diabetes Education Department at 860.456.6727.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What can I eat when I have diabetes?
The American Diabetes Association recommends that everyone with diabetes have an individualized meal plan worked out with a Registered Dietitian. You will be encouraged to eat three meals and one or more snacks a day, to measure your food portions and not skip meals. Most people will need to decrease their portion sizes but there will be no foods that can't try to fit into your meal plan.
- Do I have to prick my finger to test my blood sugar?
Blood glucose testing is an important piece to a diabetes treatment plan. The results that you obtain will let you know how well your diabetes is controlled and a finger stick is the easiest and most accurate test available. If the test is done correctly, it should not hurt. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of testing supplies for you.
- Why is exercise so important for someone with diabetes?
Exercise is important for all of us but especially for people with diabetes. Exercise helps your insulin to work better which will help to lower your blood glucose level. It will also help you to lose weight and keep your heart healthy.
- How do I sign up for diabetes classes?
You can call the Diabetes Education office at Windham Hospital. If you do not have a physician referral, we will send one to your physician. We offer classes at a variety of times to meet most people's schedules.
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