WCHC launches STABIL program

Washington County Hospital and Clinics has formally announced the launch of the STABIL — Successful Transition Arriving Back home with Informed Lifestyle choices — program, an effort to coordinate county public health and private hospital services to aid diabetic patients.

“Diabetes is a major health concern with 1 in 10 Americans having diabetes and one in three with prediabetes,” the hospital said in a news release. “To address this public health concern, the program will be funded through a Public Health grant with a goal to assist patients to live a healthy and active life while managing their diabetes.”

The hospital said the transition home for many diabetic patients was a difficult one, with many lacking needed information on their condition.

“STABIL addresses the identified gap in care for patients with diabetic complications after they transfer home from a hospitalization with WCHC,” the news release said. “While in the hospital, eligible patients will be identified and provided information on the program … After discharge, a Washington County Public Health Nurse will be in contact with the patient to provide in-home care. During in-home visits, the nurse will continue to provide disease specific education on medications, blood sugar monitoring, importance of proper nutrition and more.”

While the service is free, there are some caveats.

“Patients will be eligible for this free service after an assessment to rule out any other covered available resources including skilled care or home health services,” the news release said. “Patients must reside in Washington County and will have the opportunity to review the program with their discharge team during their inpatient stay at WCHC.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com