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We offer free appointments to individuals and their families looking to improve their diabetes. Appointments are individualized so that education and recommendations best fit into each patient's unique lifestyle. Education is evidence-based, focus on core topics of diabetes management, and is provided by a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist.
Appointments are held at Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital. We gladly accept provider referrals; however, referrals are not required to schedule an appointment. Individuals may call to schedule an appointment at any time (830-583-9304).
Free
Free
Our mission is to improve the health of residents in Karnes County and surrounding areas. All of our appointment services are free to individuals and families so that cost is not a burden for anyone needing help with their diabetes.
Patient-Centered
Patient-Centered
Diabetes looks different for each individual. Because of that, we strive to provide education and management skills that are tailored to the needs & lifestyle of each patient. We ask questions to get to know your current lifestyle, your goals, and your challenges & strengths so that we can build a personalized plan to improve your diabetes.
7 Core Behaviors
7 Core Behaviors
Our education is based on the proven ADCES7 Self-Care Behaviors framework for diabetes management. Topics Include:
Healthy Eating
Physical Activity
Monitoring Blood Sugar
Stress Management
Taking Medications
Solving Problems
Reducing Risks of Complications
Certified Educator
Certified Educator
A Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist (CDCES) is a healthcare provider with specialized knowledge in diabetes management. Our program is operated under a CDCES devoted to diabetes patients only. This means that our program is able to provide more in-depth diabetes education than what a patient may receive in a busy clinical setting. The certification also means that patients receive accurate, evidence-based care that follows guidelines and standards of care.
What can I expect at my first visit?
What can I expect at my first visit?
Initial visits typically last 45 minutes to an hour. This is because we want to spend time with you to get to know more about how your diabetes is currently managed and any ways that we can work together to improve it.
We will ask you a few questions about your health history and your current diabetes management routine and numbers. From there, we'll ask more about your health and diabetes goals or your doctor's goals for you. We'll also ask about your lifestyle, such as your schedule or eating habits, so that we find solutions that are most effective for you.
From there, we'll dive into education on the topics most important for you right now and put together a doable action plan to start taking charge of your diabetes.
What do I bring to appointments?
What do I bring to appointments?
You don't have to bring anything, but you're welcome to bring anything related to your diabetes or health management! Your latest lab results (such latest blood sugar or A1c results), a log of your blood sugar readings, or a list of your diabetes medications are all useful in helping us understand your current situation at this first appointment. A journal of your past meals can also be helpful if you are looking to learn more about nutrition!
Do I have to have diabetes to schedule an appointment?
Do I have to have diabetes to schedule an appointment?
No - a diabetes diagnosis is not required. We also work with individuals who have prediabetes and those with a family history of diabetes that are looking to prevent prediabetes/diabetes. Additionally, we meet with family members who are looking for more education to care for and assist their loved one with diabetes.
How many appointments will I go to?
How many appointments will I go to?
This is up to you. Typically patients see better results when they consistently follow-up, and our patients often start to see sustainable results after at least 3 follow-up appointments. Follow-up appointments are important to check in about whether goals are being met and, if not, how we can solve problems and move forward for your health in a way that better suits you.
Can a family member attend with me?
Can a family member attend with me?
Yes! Managing diabetes often involves the help or understanding of family members, so you are always welcome to bring in a loved one. Many times family members are eager to learn more about diabetes and may have several questions of their own. We're also happy to provide more education to your loved ones, as well.
Where will the appointment take place?
Where will the appointment take place?
Appointments take place in a designated diabetes classroom at Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital's main hopsital building.
Will I ever be charged for an appointment?
Will I ever be charged for an appointment?
No - we offer all appointment services at no cost to patients ever.
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