The Diabetes Self-Management Education Program at Neighborhood Diabetes has been Recognized by the American Diabetes Association for Quality Self-Management Education*. In addition to offering comprehensive diabetes education services we are a convenient resource for diabetes glucose meters and supplies.

Diabetes Self-Management Training (DSMT): An individual assessment of each patient's educational needs guides the care we plan and provide. Patients are assisted in setting goals for their own diabetes care based on this assessment.

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT): Our experienced registered dietitian works with each patient to develop individualized food plans that meet their specific therapeutic needs. These more comprehensive nutrition therapy sessions are a separate and distinct service for diabetes management and have been found to help many patients reduce the medications they need.

The professional staff of certified diabetes educators includes Kathleen Belmonte, MS, RN-CS, CDE and Elvira Q Johnson, MS, RD, CDE, LDN who work closely with each client's physician to improve diabetes management and control, thus often reducing the need for increased medication and improving quality of life. Our RN/RD team can help you provide more complete diabetes care by using the

• Clinical Practice Recommendations of the American Diabetes Association
• National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education
• National Evidence-based Medical Nutrition Therapy Guidelines for Practice

All assessments and summaries of patient progress are sent to referring providers to enhance continuity and coordination of care. Medicare does also require that specific laboratory data be available at appropriate intervals to the RN/RD team to assure clinical monitoring according to national guidelines.

In the last several years, Medicare and other insurers have recognized the essential role education and nutrition therapy have in the management and treatment of diabetes making it easier for more and more patients to access these services. As with all benefits, these are subject to deductibles and co-payments.

To make an appointment, please call 866-784-5647. A physician referral is required. Referral forms and additional information are available by contacting Kathleen at 781-246-9359.