Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that affects the body's production of glucose and insulin levels. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin. Type 2, gestational and prediabetes are all a result of an excess amount of sugar in the blood (high glucose levels).
Endocrinologists in Bradenton, Florida
Diabetes impacts millions of households across the country, but when managed properly, you and your loved ones can live a healthier life.
At HCA Florida Blake Hospital, our specialized teams of caregivers are here to support you and your family as you manage your condition through expert diabetes self-management classes. We also offer access to a support group with like-minded individuals to confide in throughout your diabetes journey. While we like to focus on our non-surgical options to help you with your condition, we do offer weight loss surgery to relieve you from your symptoms and enhance your overall health.
Diabetes treatments and services
If you are diagnosed with diabetes, you can take comfort in knowing you will receive the treatment and support you need at our hospital.
Advanced diabetes self-management education
A physician referral is required to take our advanced diabetes self-management class. After our specialist receives your referral, we look forward to welcoming you to our two-day course offered four times a year on Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00am - 1:30pm.
Our class is taught by a number of knowledgeable healthcare professionals, including registered nurses, physical therapists, registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, pharmacists and physicians.
The topics discussed during class can range from:
- Behavioral goal setting and establishing a support system
- Blood sugar (glucose) monitoring
- Medication management
- New concepts in diabetes management
- Nutrition management
- Physical activity
- Reducing complications, such as chronic wounds
- Types of diabetes (i.e. Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes)
Our diabetes self-management class is taught by a number of knowledgeable healthcare professionals, including:
- Certified diabetes educators
- Pharmacists
- Physical therapists
- Physicians
- Registered dietitians
- Registered nurses
For more information about our diabetes self-management education program, contact our food services department at (941) 798-6134 and follow the voice prompts to select option eight.
Weight loss options through surgery
We offer many different options to help you lose weight to improve your overall health and reduce the symptoms and severity of Type 2 diabetes. Weight loss surgery is a provided route you can take to potentially restore normal blood sugar levels, reduce symptoms and the need for medication.
We will work closely with you to determine if you qualify for weight loss surgery and which procedure is best for you.
Diabetes support group
Our hospital hosts a monthly support group from September through April for patients and families with diabetes. We pride ourselves on creating a safe space for individuals to come together and discuss similar challenges and experiences.
The support group is free to attend and does not require a registration. Our team looks forward to seeing you and your loved ones at our next diabetes support group.
The Healthy Living Blog
Fresh knowledge and insights in and around healthcare industry.