Diabetes Care

For those living with diabetes, life can feel consumed by disease management. At Baptist Health, we help you take care of your diabetes and assist you in making lifestyle changes to help manage the disease. Within each diabetes care center and program, Baptist Health focuses on personalized strategies to support you.

Our expert team provides care and education for type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, prediabetes, hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Our range of advanced services includes:

• Assessments to determine individual needs
• Blood-sugar testing
• Nutritional counseling, including meal planning and weight management assistance
• Diabetes education
• Diabetes self-management program

If you think you may have diabetes or need help managing your condition, request an appointment with one of our expert providers at the nearest diabetes care center.

Diabetes Self Management Programs

Baptist Health-Little Rock

The Diabetes Self Management Education and Support Services at Baptist Health helps adults with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes effectively manage their disease. Accredited by the American Diabetes Association, the program equips those with diabetes with the knowledge and habits they need to take control of their condition and live a healthy life. Our program consists of four appointments:

• First Appointment: Initial Assessment
  You will meet with a diabetes educator who will listen to your experiences and concerns about living with diabetes. The educator will describe how diabetes affects the body and how to avoid complications. You will receive a glucometer if needed and learn how to test blood sugar less painfully.
• Second Appointment: Nutrition
  You and a registered dietitian will create a personalized plan of eating. The goal will be to find a plan you enjoy while still keeping your blood sugar in the target range. At this diabetes care center, you will also learn about carbohydrate counting, reading and understanding food labels, and meal planning for diabetes.
• Third Appointment: Group Class
  You’ll attend classes in a small group of no more than 10 people. We will cover topics you’ve already discussed as well as new information. We encourage class members to ask questions and to participate.
• Fourth Appointment: “Putting the Pieces Together” Class
  In this final class, participants discuss their difficulties and successes in reaching their health goals. We also introduce community resources to help you continue your success after completing the program.

Call 501-202-1877 to learn more about our diabetes care center or register for the program.

Baptist Health Diabetes Care-Fort Smith

The Diabetes Self-Management Program in Fort Smith consists of three classes that take place over a period of three to four months. This diabetes care center also offers personalized sessions to evaluate blood sugar control issues, blood pressure, and weight.

To participate, you must have a referral from your doctor. Your provider’s office may call 479-441-4183 to schedule your appointment. Medicare and most insurance plans will help cover the cost of the program, but check with your insurance provider regarding coverage.

Baptist Health Diabetes Care-Heber Springs and Stuttgart

The Diabetes Self-Management Education Program at Baptist Health Medical Center-Heber Springs and Stuttgart offers a variety of educational opportunities for clients to manage their diabetes. Accredited by the American Diabetes Association, our program provides exceptional care and support for those with diabetes.

Our program includes:

• Individual Assessment
  One-on-one teaching with a diabetes educator to discuss your lifestyle and how diabetes affects you personally. This session at our diabetes care center connects you with a personalized plan.
• Monthly Classes
  Three weekly, 3-hour small group classes taught by experts at our diabetes care center.
  • Week 1: What is Diabetes: Understand the disease process, blood glucose monitoring, complications, medications, and how to treat low blood sugar.
  • Week 2: Nutrition with Diabetes: Discuss carbohydrates, fats, proteins, food labels, and meal planning tips.
  • Week 3: Physical Activity & Stress Management: Learn about exercise benefits, stress management, and healthy habits.
• Medical Nutrition Therapy
  A session where a client has the opportunity to meet with our knowledgeable dietitians to discuss any issues with nutrition. This personal discussion allows clients to develop a customized eating plan and discuss problems with controlling blood glucose.

To learn more about the diabetes education program, contact us at 501-887-3256 (Heber Springs) or 870-674-6603 (Stuttgart). A physician referral is required for the program. You may also call Baptist Health HealthLine.

National Diabetes Prevention Program

Prevent Type 2 Diabetes with the PreventT2 Program

PreventT2 is part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is proven to help people with pre-diabetes prevent or delay development of type 2 diabetes. The program includes 16 weekly sessions followed by  6 monthly sessions, and is offered at our diabetes care centers in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Benton. Call 501-202-1540 to register or learn more.

What Is the Benefit of a PreventT2 Program?

As part of a PreventT2 group, you will work with other participants and a trained lifestyle coach to learn the skills you need to make lasting changes. These changes include losing a modest amount of weight, being more physically active, and managing stress. Being part of a group provides support from other people who are facing similar challenges and trying to make the same changes you are. Together you can celebrate successes and find ways to overcome obstacles.

What Is the Format of the PreventT2 Program?

PreventT2 groups meet for a year – weekly for the first 6 months, then once or twice a month for the second 6 months to maintain healthy lifestyle changes. During each session, your lifestyle coach will teach a lesson and lead a group discussion. For example, you will learn to:

• Eat healthy
• Add physical activity to your life
• Manage stress
• Stay on track when eating out
• Understand and respond to your food cues
• Stay motivated
• Solve problems that can get in the way of healthy change

What Does a PreventT2 Lifestyle Coach Do?

PreventT2 lifestyle coaches have the experience and training to help you reach your goals. Your lifestyle coach will help you:

• Learn the facts about healthy eating and physical activity and explain how these behaviors will help reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes
• Set and meet your goals
• Build relationships with other participants

PreventT2 is part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Diabetes Support Group

Diabetes can be overwhelming, but the condition feels more manageable with the right support. Our monthly support group at each diabetes care center empowers those living with diabetes and their caregivers through education and community connection. Learn more about our Diabetes Support Group.

Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP)

The DEEP program is a free 8-week, 6-session course that educates those with pre-diabetes and diabetes about effective self-care. This exceptional program is offered at multiple diabetes care center locations across Arkansas, including Arkadelphia, Bryant, Benton, Lonoke, Little Rock, North Little Rock, Sherwood, Maumelle, and Conway. Call 501-202-1540 to register or learn more.