The Diabetes Educators at Northern Montana Hospital believe education is an important tool for people with diabetes. People can use what they learn to improve their health and their lives. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor to refer you to our teaching program, “Take Control,” recognized by the American Diabetes Association for quality self-management.  This knowledge builds confidence and encourages people with diabetes to achieve and maintain good health, and helps them prevent complications.

We support quality of care by promoting professional growth and development of those involved in the care and education of people with diabetes. For more information contact your doctor, or Lisa Ranes, RD 262-1424.

The Education Program Will Help You:

Learn how to monitor your blood sugar levels and what the levels should be;

Improve your nutrition habits;

Understand you diabetes medications;

Develop problem-solving skills to manage high and low blood sugars;

Learn ways to reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications;

Understand how stress, illness and infection affect blood glucose;

Improve your confidence in your ability to manage diabetes.

The class is a four-session diabetes program designed to provide people with diabetes the information they need to learn how to manage their diabetes. The classes are taught by a Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator that specialize in diabetes management. Participants are encouraged to include a family member or friend in the education process.

Who is Eligible

Take Control would benefit patients with Type 1 or Type 2. The comprehensive program is designed to help patients gain the everyday skills needed to manage their diabetes successfully. Current research shows improved blood glucose control will reduce and may prevent the complications of diabetes. A physician referral is required. Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance carriers cover diabetes self-management training. Check with your insurance for coverage details.

For more information or to register for classes, please call or email RD CDE Program Coordinator: Lisa Ranes 262-1424

Self Managed Support

The individual consultation does require a health questionnaire and nutrition history to be completed prior to the visit. It is important that you bring the completed forms with you when you see the diabetes educator for the first time. The forms can be downloaded and printed.

Nutrition History

Health Questionnaire

*Gestational Diabetes History

*Only required at the Diabetes Educator's request