Success Story - Managing Diabetes

Problem:
Through discussion and conversation with different individuals in Wright County regarding programs through Extension, the topic of health concerns, mainly diabetes, surfaced. There seemed to be a need for education on managing diabetes. Paulelda Gilbert, Field Specialist/Health and Nutrition, was contacted and a meeting with Wright Medical Clinic and Wright Medical Center was held. The outcome of the meeting produced cooperation between Iowa State University Extension, Wright Medical Center, and Wright Medical Clinic to conduct a program on managing diabetes.

Response:
Over a four month period a series of four meetings was held regarding the managing of diabetes. The topics included diabetic meal planning and exercise, foot care, overview of type I and II diabetes, and overview of medications for diabetics. The presenters were a local
dietitian, physician assistant, pharmacist, Extension field specialist, and a diabetic educator from a neighboring hospital. Attendance at the meetings were 24, 14, 12, and 13 for an average of 15. Refreshments provided by the Wright Medical Center at the meetings reflected the correct type of food that is appropriate for a person with diabetes.

Impact:
An evaluation was submitted to the participants at the end of each program topic. When asked “what is one thing you learned tonight” many of the responses were learning how to count carbohydrates and eating more healthy. Other responses from the evaluations included: "That I won’t have the fear of taking insulin, should I have to," a better understanding of the different meds, and "I am not diabetic, I brought a friend who needed a driver. I did find the program very interesting and informative. Glad I came." When asked to rate the program (done at the last meeting) there were 7 that indicated excellent and 5 that indicated above average. Other comments indicated that the program was very informative, very good, and well presented. When asked for a dollar value on each of the diabetes programs the three responses were $3, $10, and $25. There was interest in having a follow up program related to diabetes. Verbal comments after each program indicated that the four topics were well received and the programs were worth the individuals time to attend.

Contact:
Leroy Jensen, County Extension Education Director
Wright County Extension Office
210 SW 1st St., P.O. Box 433
Clarion, IA 50525
Phone (515)532-3453, Fax (515)532-3415
Email lhjensen@iastate.edu