Online community helps Allina Health patients live well with diabetes
Still working on New Year's resolutions? Allina Health diabetes educators have one: to try new ways to help their patients meet diabetes management goals. That's why they started an online community in January.
"We usually see each patient only three times a year. We wanted to give our patients access to social support the other 362 days of the year," says Sarah Zaun, diabetes nurse educator.
The community at diabetes.ning.com includes groups for people with type 1, type 2 or gestational diabetes. A live chat feature helps you connect directly with others who are also online. An events calendar includes opportunities to meet others in-person.
"We hope it becomes a place to help patients relate to each other, empowering them to take control of their diabetes and prevent complications," says Cara Walcheck, diabetes educator and registered dietitian.
Walcheck and Zaun are among the Allina Health diabetes educators who regularly check in at diabetes.ning.com to answer questions about diabetes care.
So that it's safe place to discuss personal pros and cons of diabetes, diabetes.ning.com is a private, invitation-only site. To join, call 612-262-4534. Leave a message that includes your email address and then watch your inbox for an invitation.
You do not need an invitation to take advantage of these resources at allinahealth.org/diabetes:
- Basic Skills for Living with Diabetes: The online manual has the information you need to know to manage diabetes.
- Diabetes support: Learn about classes, support groups and recommended resources.
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Allina Health Diabetes Education Where can I get help in managing my diabetes?
Source: Allina Health Diabetes Education
First published: 01/29/2013
Last updated: 01/29/2013
Reviewed by: Mary Frederick, RN, MS, CDE, diabetes program manager, Allina Health Diabetes Education; Dawn McCarter, RN, BSN, CDE, diabetes program coordinator, Allina Health Diabetes Education
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