Quincy Medical Group now has five Certified Diabetes Educators serving area patients. Registered Dietitian Brenna Webster recently completed the certification process, growing the team of professionals trained to work with patients with diabetes.
Brenna said having a team of Certified Diabetes Educators (CDE) is a direct benefit to patients. “Certified Diabetes Educators work with patients and their families to educate on self-management skills and troubleshoot various areas of care including blood sugar monitoring, nutrition, exercise, and medications,” she explained. “We can work with patients to create a realistic plan for improvement based on the individual’s needs.”
Certification is complete upon meeting eligibility requirements and taking (and passing!) the Certified Diabetes Educator exam. Eligibility requires completing two years of professional practice, as well as 1,000 hours of diabetes education, and 15 hours of diabetes related continuing education. Dietitians, pharmacists, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or doctors are eligible to become a Certified Diabetes Educator.
Along with Brenna, the team of CDEs at Quincy Medical Group include Loretta Musholt, RN, CDE; Angie Zanger Geiselman MS, RDN, LDN; Ashlyn Housewright, RDN, LDN, CDE, CLS; and Melissa Stembridge, CNP, CDE.
Quincy Medical Group Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) is designed to empower people with diabetes with the training and tools needed to control diabetes and stay healthy. This process involves education, training, coaching, and support over time with Certified Diabetes Educators who are dietitians or nurses.
For more information call 217-222-6550, ext. 3481 or click here.