Diabetes Education

When you have diabetes, you discover there is a lot to learn. At Mayo Clinic Health System, we help you gain the knowledge and skills you need for day-to-day diabetes management.

Our caring team helps you and your family master nutrition, meal planning, exercise, blood glucose monitoring and insulin administration. It also helps you manage the stress or sadness often associated with lifestyle changes related to diabetes.

We believe you can achieve lifelong healthy living and greater independence through knowledge and support.

Find out more about our diabetes education services:

• Services
• Diabetes education specialists
• Referrals
• FAQ
• Diabetes education locations near you
• Diabetes education providers near you

Services

Our team of specialists provides diabetes education services in various formats and settings close to home. You may have the option of attending one-on-one or group sessions or receiving education while you’re in the hospital. At some locations, staff members from other clinics provide diabetes education services on an outreach basis. When making your first appointment, we will let you know what options are available.

Our diabetes education services include:

Diabetes self-management care planning

Diabetes self-management care planning is a way for you to be more involved in decisions about your health. Our diabetes education team helps you make treatment decisions based on goals that are important to you. They work with you and your healthcare provider to develop your personalized plan.

Diabetes education

You are the key to controlling your diabetes. By participating in our program, you will learn about:

• Achieving and maintaining effective blood glucose control
• Blood glucose monitoring
• Diabetes medications and technology
• Exercise and activity
• Family involvement and social support
• Nutrition for good health and blood glucose control
• Prevention, detection and treatment of complications
• Signs that may indicate you need a change in your treatment plan
• Strategies to change behavior

Pediatric diabetes management

Our diabetes education team offers teaching sessions specially designed for children and families. You and your child learn skills for managing diabetes at home, including how to:

• Give insulin
• Incorporate exercise
• Monitor blood glucose
• Plan meals

Diabetes support groups and education

Support groups are an opportunity to share your experiences with others going through similar challenges. Classes provide detailed instruction in a group setting. To find support groups and educational classes near you, ask your care team or search our classes and events for "diabetes.”

Back to top

Diabetes education specialists

Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of diabetes management. Every day, they work to help people live healthier lives.

Our specialists include:

• Endocrinologists
• Diabetes nurse educators
• Registered dietitians
• Exercise physiologists
• Pharmacists
• Psychologists

You may receive additional care from:

• Ophthalmologists
• Podiatrists
• Social services

Back to top

Referrals

A referral is required for diabetes education services. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine if diabetes education is right for you and to arrange a referral.

If you are a provider, you can refer a patient online, by phone or by fax.

Back to top

FAQ

What can I do to make a diabetes self-management program work for me?

• Ask questions: Healthcare can be confusing. By asking questions, you get the answers you need. Plus, your healthcare provider learns more about you and how to serve you better.
• Listen to yourself: You are the most knowledgeable part of the team when it comes to determining what is best for you. If a treatment is creating problems, let us know.
• Keep follow-up appointments: Follow-up visits are an opportunity for you and your provider to review your care plan and make adjustments.

What are my payment options, and do you offer financial assistance?

We offer help navigating the complexities of billing and insurance. If you are unable to pay for care due to financial hardship, we also provide financial assistance.

Back to top

Explore locations or providers near you for details on diabetes education: