POTTSTOWN MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER DIABETES EDUCATION PROGRAM EARNS 2009 MERCK EXCELLENCE IN DIABETES EDUCATION CARE AWARD
Pottstown Memorial Medical Center’s (PMMC) Diabetes Education Program has been awarded the 2009 Merck Excellence in Diabetes Education Care Award. Established to reward excellence in the field of diabetes and honor those who utilize a programmatic or innovative approach to treating and managing this disease, the award, which includes a $10,000 grant, will be used to advance and improve the Diabetes Education Program for the PMMC community. Education Recognition of the Diabetes Self-Management Program offered at PMMC has been awarded by the American Diabetes Association through September 26, 2012.
The outpatient program is offered every month as a series of three classes totaling 10 hours. The goal of the program is to assist participants with managing their diabetes and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Participants will learn about the basics of diabetes; medications and insulin; sick day management; eating and planning meals; physical activity and exercise; long term complications; the importance of good foot/skin care; and monitoring their glucose levels. A Diabetes Support Group is also offered once a month where participants can stay current on information about managing their diabetes and maintaining a higher quality of life.
The grant was submitted by Jeffrey Freeman, DO, FACOI, medical director of the diabetes program, and supported by Margaret (Peggy) Spinozzi, MS, RD, CDE (Certified Diabetic Educator), LDN, Diabetes Education Program Coordinator, and Sodexo employee (food service provider for PMMC). In order to be eligible, the program must demonstrate the following: assessment and diagnosis of diabetes; treatment and management of diabetes; assessment and monitoring of a significant number of program participants; improvement of the quality of life for those living with diabetes; educational component; awareness and recognition of the program; and use of enhanced treatment modalities (exercise, diet, lifestyle, and pharmaceutical applications) in managing the disease.
Dr. Freeman and Ms. Spinozzi will attend the Annual American Osteopathic Foundation’s Honors Celebration in New Orleans in November to accept this award.