Hartford-Area Hospital Earns Distinction For Diabetes Education

HARTFORD, CT — Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford has been recognized by the American Diabetes Association for providing diabetes self-management education and support services that meet national quality standards for patient care.

The recognition, awarded through the American Diabetes Association's Education Recognition Program, applies to diabetes education services at Saint Francis Hospital as well as Trinity Health Of New England Medical Group locations in Enfield and Prospect.

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The Education Recognition Program certifies that diabetes self-management education and support services meet the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support.

The recognition is valid for four years and is awarded to organizations that voluntarily demonstrate their programs meet evidence-based standards.

"DSMES is an essential part of managing diabetes and is as effective as diabetes medication. Therefore, all people with diabetes benefit from it," said Barbara Eichorst, vice president of health programs for the American Diabetes Association. "We applaud Saint Francis Hospital for its commitment to providing value-based interventions such as DSMES, maximizing corresponding outcomes and patient experience."

According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes self-management education and support programs help patients develop the skills needed to manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 40 million Americans are living with diabetes, including approximately 11 million people who are unaware they have the disease. Nearly 3,300 Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each day.

Research has linked participation in diabetes education programs to improved health outcomes, including healthier eating habits, increased physical activity, better weight management and reduced rates of emergency department visits, hospitalizations and readmissions.

The programs have also been associated with a lower risk of diabetes-related complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss, nerve damage and amputation.