Eastern Shore Rural Health Enhances Diabetes Education Services

Plus Express Care Receives National Re-Accreditation

Eastern Shore Rural Health System, Inc. is celebrating three important achievements.

Registered Dietitian Natalie Cunningham has become Rural Health’s first Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES). As lead instructor for Rural Health’s Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program, Cunningham helps patients learn how to better manage diabetes and other chronic health conditions. “This certification recognizes Natalie’s expertise and dedication to helping patients improve their health,” said Rural Health Chief Executive Officer Jeannette Edwards. “She works closely with our providers and patients every day to improve diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney disease, and other chronic conditions.”

Rural Health’s diabetes self-management program is accredited through the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES) Diabetes Education Accreditation Program (DEAP), one of two Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) – approved national accreditation pathways for DSMES services. The DSMES program provides personalized education and support for people living with diabetes. Participants learn how to:

• Check and manage blood sugar
• Eat healthier
• Stay physically active
• Take medications correctly
• Prevent complications
• Set health goals
• Manage the stress and emotional challenges of living with diabetes

Research shows that participating in a diabetes education program can improve health outcomes, lower Hemoglobin A1C levels (marker for diabetes), and help people build healthier habits.

Patients with diabetes can speak with their primary care provider to learn more about a referral to the program. The program is especially helpful:

• When first diagnosed with diabetes
• During yearly diabetes check-ins
• When treatment plans change or new health challenges arise
• During life transitions (ex: going to college)

During the first year, participants receive up to 10 hours of education and support. Initial and final visits take place in person at Onley Community Health Center, while follow-up visits may be completed virtually. For more information about the Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support program, call 757-678-1524.

Eastern Shore Rural Health’s Express Care in Onley has also earned re-accreditation from the Commission on Ambulatory and Urgent Care Quality (CAUCQ), a nationally recognized quality assurance program affiliated with the Urgent Care Association. Express Care earned a three-year re-accreditation, which is the highest level possible. “The accreditation reflects Rural Health’s continued commitment to patient safety, quality care, and positive health outcomes,” said Edwards.

Express Care provides walk-in treatment for patients ages 2 and older with illnesses and injuries that need prompt attention but are not life-threatening. No appointment is needed. For hours and information about Express Care, visit expresscare.esrh.org or call 757-787-1465.

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Wayne Creed

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