Great River Health System Offers Diabetes Classes in February

West Burlington - Great River Diabetes Education offers four-week group diabetes classes every month. The next afternoon series will be from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays beginning Feb. 4. Morning classes will be from 10 a.m. to noon Thursdays beginning Feb. 21.

Group diabetes classes are for people newly diagnosed, making a change in treatment, or having complications or concerns. A physician referral for diabetes education is required.

Class topics include: Proper eating for diabetes, managing blood sugars, medicines, diabetes-related health problems, and exercise.

Diabetes educators will assess needs for specific information and skills, teach self-care and provide continuing help. Most insurance companies cover the fee for the class series. A family member or friend is encouraged to attend at no additional cost.

The American Diabetes Association has awarded Great River Diabetes Education with its Education Recognition Certificate for providing a high-quality diabetes self-management program. Recognition assures that education programs meet the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and are an essential component of effective diabetes treatment. The Iowa Department of Public Health also has accredited the program.