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Monica Jones, director of Baptist Health System's new Diabetes Education Program, goes over diabetes disease information with a new patient

Baptist Health System Provides Education Program for Diabetics

When Monica Jones was attending Mississippi State University, she knew that she was interested in dietetics. During the course of her career, she became focused on the field of diabetes. For 13 years, she has worked with diabetics, including newly diagnosed, type 1, type 2, gestational and pump patients, and recently established a new Diabetes

Education Program at the Baptist Health System's Nutrition Center, located in the Colonnades.

"It's so rewarding to see someone with diabetes live a richer life because they better understand how to care for themselves," said Jones, RD, LD, who sees patients by physician referral.

During their education sessions, Jones gives new patients an overview of the diabetes disease process, defining diabetes and the patient's own type, along with treatment plans. She explains that the body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that is required to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.

"I enjoy meeting my patients and providing a meal plan that fits their lifestyle," explained Jones. "I also enjoy teaching patients how to manage their diabetes to prevent complications and provide a better quality of life."

Jones discusses risk factors of diabetes, such as genetics, environmental factors, obesity and lack of exercise. She reviews nutritional management, which includes carbohydrate counting and meal planning while also providing sample menus and healthy cooking tips.

"We also cover medication instruction, such as insulin administration and medication action and side effects," said Jones.

Jones also shares with them the appropriate types of exercise and the relation of exercise to blood glucose, while also reviewing foot care.

"We go over blood glucose monitoring, such as the frequency of glucose testing, target levels and HgbA1C goals, as well as provide a glucose monitor and instructions on how to use it," said Jones, who also points out acute complications of the disease, with an explanation of signs, symptoms, and treatment of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. "To reduce the risks associated with diabetes, we also discuss the relationship between glucose control and long term complications."

For female diabetics, Jones reviews preconception care and pregnancy care, explaining the relationship between glucose control and pregnancy outcome, and educating them on glucose monitoring and target levels.

"Our physicians are very excited about the program," said Jones, who provides patients with a full assessment, an education summary and collaboratively developed goals.

After leaving Jones, diabetics are ready to return to their physician for a follow-up visit. "After a comprehensive education session," she said, "they will understand how to better manage their diabetes. If they need further assistance, I am always available for follow up and questions."

Of the nearly 20 million people who have diabetes, one in four do not know they have the disease. So even though most patients through the diabetes education program are newly diagnosed, Jones also sees diabetics who have lived with the disease for years.

"When they come to see me, they're usually newly diagnosed, and are fearful, frustrated, depressed or uncertain how to deal with diabetes," said Jones. "It's difficult for them to take this step. I'm glad to help allay some of their concerns."

Jones is glad that physicians are referring patients to the new program "because they realize the importance of diabetes education and self management," she said. "Diabetes is prevalent in Mississippi, and education is one way to help Mississippians manage the disease."

Tags:

Baptist Health System, Diabetes Education Program, Monica Jones, The Nutrition Center

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