Nashville General Hospital Launches Diabetes Education Pilot Program to Empower Patients with Knowledge and Tools for Better Health
The program, delivered during a four-hour class held twice a month, combines the expertise of a multidisciplinary team, including a dietitian, nurse, and pharmacist. Participants are introduced to the seven key self-care behaviors for managing diabetes
This past August marked the start of an innovative diabetes education program at Nashville General Hospital (NGH) to address a critical healthcare need for our underserved and marginalized communities. This pilot program, supported by the NGH Foundation, incorporates evidence-based education, hands-on tools, and a holistic approach to diabetes management, fostering healthier lifestyles for patients living with diabetes at any stage.
Empowering Patients Through Education
The program, delivered during a four-hour class held twice a month, combines the expertise of a multidisciplinary team, including a dietitian, nurse, and pharmacist. Participants are introduced to the seven key self-care behaviors for managing diabetes: healthy eating, staying active, and medication management. The curriculum is designed to build confidence and equip patients with skills to take control of their health.
Key features include:
- A Focus on Nutrition: The NGH Foundation funded the purchase of replica food models to teach portion control, balanced nutrition, and meal planning. These models provide a tangible, interactive way for patients to understand the impact of their dietary choices.
- Comprehensive Support: Participants benefit from an evidence-based curriculum, A1C testing to monitor progress, one-on-one consultations as needed, and monthly follow-ups for the first five months.
- Holistic Wellness: During the session, patients are offered a continental breakfast, which serves as a practical learning activity for building a diabetic-friendly meal. Additionally, they receive a free 10-day gym membership sponsored by the American Heart Association’s TARGET BP Program.
The need for diabetes education at NGH is profound. Between 2022 and 2024, NGH cared for 7,287 patients living with diabetes, of whom 80% were from racial and ethnic minority groups and 50% were unemployed. The program addresses barriers to healthcare access by offering free education, resources, and culturally responsive care.
Patients enrolled in the program are screened for food insecurity through NGH’s Electronic Medical Record System. Those identified as at risk are referred to the NGH Food Pharmacy program, ensuring access to nutritious, diabetes-friendly food.
Early Success Stories
The program’s first participant has already seen a significant improvement, with a 10% decrease in her A1C levels and a transformed outlook on managing her condition. She shared:
“I feel so much more at ease managing my condition and more positive about the lifelong changes I need to make.”
This underscores the program’s potential to transform lives by addressing the multifaceted challenges of diabetes care.
Looking Ahead
The NGH Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program is designed to meet patients where they are, offering personalized care that accounts for cultural differences and social determinants of health. A pilot-based approach ensures the program evolves to meet patient needs and remains sustainable.
The NGH Foundation’s commitment to supporting initiatives like this program reflects its dedication to improving the health outcomes of Nashville’s underserved communities. Feedback from participants and healthcare staff has been overwhelmingly positive, setting a strong foundation for the program’s future.
Join Us in Supporting Healthier Lives
Healthcare providers are encouraged to refer patients to this groundbreaking program. For more information or to refer a patient call 615-341-4447.
To support programs like this and help transform our community's lives, please contact the Nashville General Hospital Foundation at 615-341-4431 or visit us online at www.nashgenfoundation.org.
Together, we can create a healthier future for everyone