DIABETES

Diabetes is a disease that affects multiple body organ functions. Diabetes left untreated is a leading cause of blindness, stroke, heart disease, kidney failure and nerve damage. Millions of Americans have diabetes and are unaware of it, while thousands of new cases are discovered each day.

Who's At Risk?

Those most at risk for Type 2 Diabetes (adult onset) are over 45, overweight and/or have a family history of diabetes. Ethnic groups most at risk for diabetes include African Americans, Mexican Americans, Asian Americans and the highest-risk group, Native Americans.

Diabetes Self-Management Education

The Hernando County Health Department/Nature Coast Community Health Center has partnered with Brookville Regional Hospital to provide a community diabetes education program. Classes are held over a five week period covering topics to help the person with diabetes understand their disease and learn how to control their blood sugar. The classes are instructed by staff from both facilities and offered as part of the Diabetes Rehabilitation Program at Brooksville Regional Hospital. The program is recognized as meeting the National Standards for Diabetes Education by the American Diabetes Association. For more information on this program please contact Dee West @ 352-797-4616.

Medical Nutrition Therapy

Registered Dietitians offer individual assessment and nutritional counseling for special medical needs such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Clients receive individual sessions with a dietitian to discuss dietary habits and instruct on medically prescribed diets necessary for good health.  A physician referral is required. For more information, please call (352) 540-6928.

Insulin Program

Those persons who financially qualify and have no other payer source may obtain their insulin at a reduced rate.

For information on any of these programs, call (352) 540-6800 x82299.

• Sharps-Medication Disposal Program - Hernando County Waste Management (PDF - 49 KB)

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