Those who want to discover new ways to better manage their diabetes are encouraged to sign up for Diabetes Solutions classes at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH), organizers said.

“These classes are for the person with diabetes, as well as their primary-care provider,” said Deanna Carr, charge nurse and diabetes educator. “They will learn more about the many factors that play a role in diabetes.”

Class topics include the definition of diabetes, healthy eating, exercise, monitoring blood sugars, risk factors, problem solving, medication and healthy coping.

Diabetes Solutions is offered every other month in the St. Joseph Meeting Room at PVCH. The two-day sessions run from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on consecutive Tuesdays.

The 2023 schedule is Jan. 3 and 10; March 7 and 14; May 2 and 9; July 11 and 18; Sept. 5 and 12; and Nov. 7 and 14.

Registration is required. Those who are interested may visit the PVCH website; click on “services” and then “educational opportunities.”

“The referral form is available at this website,” Carr noted. “Your doctor should fill out the form and fax it to us. We request all questions about labs be answered.”

The fax number is 785-623-5108; for more information call toll-free by dialing 855-429-7633.

In addition to Carr, class presenters include Andrea Harmony, dietician, Jason Rath, doctor of physical therapy, Crystal Hill, MD, and Timothy Davis, PhD in psychology.

Cost for the two-day class is $300, which most insurance policies cover. There is a fund to help with the cost when needed; there is no additional charge for caregivers.

Cindy Burton, PVCH director of nursing, noted class presenters “encourage participants to become active in their diabetes management and will suggest ways to be successful in managing your self-care. This program focuses on national standards of care and provides interactive learning and up-to-date information.

“In addition, we provide education to caregivers so they feel comfortable being part of a support team,” Burton added.

The classes are presented in Larned in cooperation with HaysMed, which also offers Diabetes Solutions on the same schedule.

“We appreciate HaysMed’s contributions to Diabetes Solutions,” Burton commented. “Our patients and caregivers receive this great service right here at home without having to travel to Hays.”

The classes are accredited by the American Diabetes Association.