COLUMBIA, Tenn. — Diabetes is a serious health condition that must be properly managed in order to prevent complications. Maury Regional Health encourages individuals with high blood sugar levels to seek education and support about managing the condition.
When the body does not properly convert glucose into energy, excess blood sugar can build up in the bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to damage throughout the body, including within the blood vessels, nerves and organs. Uncontrolled blood sugar can result in heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, vision complications and other serious health conditions.
“Keeping blood sugar levels in check can help to prevent serious — and sometimes life-threatening — health complications that can occur when glucose accumulates in the bloodstream,” said Michelle Kennedy, RN, CDE, a certified diabetes educator for Maury Regional Health. “If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or have high blood sugar, working closely with your health care provider and receiving education is vital to proper management of the condition.”
In addition to keeping regular appointments with a primary care provider and/or endocrinology specialist to discuss the condition, those with high blood sugar are encouraged to engage in educational programs and connect with others who are facing similar issues.
Educational Classes
Maury Regional Health offers a comprehensive eight-hour course recognized by the American Diabetes Association to help individuals learn to manage their glucose levels. The class is taught by a certified diabetes educator and a registered dietitian and addresses topics such as medications, diet and meal planning and exercise. Classes are offered year-round at the following locations:
- Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia (two classes per month)
- Lewis Health Center in Hohenwald (four classes per year)
- Marshall Medical Center in Lewisburg (four classes per year)
- Wayne Medical Center in Waynesboro (four classes per year)
An order from a health care provider is required to attend this class. Most insurance companies will cover the cost and financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Ask your doctor about attending. To view a list of upcoming class dates, visit MauryRegional.com/Diabetes.
Diabetes Support Group
A monthly support group is offered by Maury Regional Health for those with diabetes and high blood sugar. Sessions are facilitated by a certified diabetes educator and are open to those with diabetes and their family members who help to manage their condition. Meetings for 2022 are being held remotely via a virtual meeting platform and start at 11 a.m. on the first Thursday of each month as follows:
- February 3
- March 3
- April 7
- May 5
- June 2
- July 7
- August 4
- September 1
- October 6
- November 3
- December 1
If you would like to join the next support group session, call 931.540.4324 to receive the link to the virtual meeting.
Learn more about managing diabetes at MauryRegional.com/Diabetes or ask your primary care physician or endocrinology specialist. If you do not already have a health care provider, visit MauryRegional.com to find a physician in your area.