Diabetes

Diabetes education in Anchorage, Alaska

We understand a diabetes diagnosis can be overwhelming. Our caregivers at the Health Management Center can help alleviate your fears and provide the knowledge and experience to help you manage your diabetes successfully.

Alaska Regional Hospital is an accredited program acknowledged by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists. Diabetes education is a recognized part of your diabetes care and is covered by Medicare and most health insurance plans when it is offered through an accredited diabetes education program.

Our patient-centered, team approach

Under the supervision of your physician, a team of experts, including a certified diabetes care and education specialist, dietitian, nurse and an exercise physiologist provide the latest in diabetes management. The Health Management Center works closely with the entire interdisciplinary team to provide an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance for people with diabetes, their families and others responsible for their care.

Diabetes education helps patients by:

• Encouraging independence through diabetes self-management treatment
• Empowering patients to understand their diabetes diagnosis and take control of their diabetes
• Helping patients to track critical numbers, including blood pressure, cholesterol and HbA1c
• Teaching the importance of eating a healthy diet, being active, taking medication as prescribed, controlling weight and checking blood sugar levels

Self-management education and support group classes

In keeping with the national standards for diabetes care, The Take Charge Program series of group education classes provides you with the skills and practical knowledge to make lifestyle changes to take charge of your diabetes and your life.

The series includes introduction to diabetes and monitoring, healthy eating, problem solving, taking medications, reducing risks, being active, healthy coping and next steps. Please call the Health Management Center at (907) 264-2038 for more information and current class times.

Individual counseling

Individual counseling is a meeting between you and an educator to assess your current practices and education needs. Some common items we help address in our clinic are:

• New diagnosis of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
• Insulin management: Our diabetes team can help you start insulin for the first time or adjust the insulin you are already taking. Any recommendations on insulin adjustment will be discussed with and approved by your physician before changes are made.
• Gestational diabetes: Our team offers instruction on monitoring blood sugars, diet and medications. At least one follow-up visit is done to ensure understanding of the education.
• Tune-up: Appointments with a registered nurse or registered dietitian can be scheduled for individuals who need a review of their self-management skills, blood glucose trends and meal planning questions or difficulties.
• Medical nutrition therapy: Appointments with a registered dietitian can be scheduled for those with diabetes who would like help with meal planning.

What to bring to the first appointment

There are a few things you need to bring to your appointment to aid in a seamless experience, such as:

• Glucometer/insulin pump/blood glucose log booklet (if you have one)
• A list of all your current diabetes prescriptions/medications
• Support person
• Insurance information

Registration

A physician’s order and an initial consult is required. Most insurance companies reimburse diabetes education. Check with your insurance before the first session. Please call (907) 264-2038 for additional information or to make your initial appointment. Once your appointment is made, you may pre-register at (907) 264-1952.

Finding our diabetes team

The Alaska Regional Hospital Health Management Center is located at:

2751 Debarr Road
Building B, Suite 250
Anchorage, AK 99508