More than 30 million Americans are living with diabetes, and the growth of prediabetes has skyrocketed, which is a serious condition that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and complications including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and amputation due to infection.
Whether you have pre-diabetes or have been diagnosed with diabetes, you have the opportunity to participate in a nationally recognized program that teaches you about nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes to stay healthier. The Villages Health Learning Center offers a variety of classes for individuals and family members with diabetes, and people interested in preventing diabetes. This combination of courses allows for ongoing learning opportunities. Click here to see upcoming classes.
Diabetes Prevention Program
TVH’s Diabetes Prevention Program is one of only four organizations in Florida (and one of only 121 out of 1,451 nationwide) to have received full recognition status by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Our program demonstrated outcome metrics at, or above, the CDC’s strict standards for the last two years to earn this honor.
The program provides a supportive environment where participants work together in a small group to learn about healthier eating and increasing their physical activity in order to reduce their risk for developing diabetes. The program, which is led by a trained Lifestyle Coach in a classroom setting, is delivered over a 12-month period, beginning with 16 weekly sessions followed by ongoing maintenance. In order to qualify for the Diabetes Prevention Program, participants must be at least 18 years old, overweight (BMI>25) and at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes or have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. You can get more information or register for this program by calling 352-674-1779.
Learn how to minimize risk and manage diabetes.
The Villages Health Diabetes Education Program meets the national standards of the American Diabetes Association as a comprehensive education program for individuals with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. A certified diabetes educator will work with you and your health care provider to develop a plan personalized for you. Diabetes education is covered by Medicare and many other insurance plans.
Diabetes Education Program
The Villages Health Diabetes Education Program is provided in 10 hours over the initial year of education:
- 1-hour individual needs assessment
- 4 two-hour group classes
- Class 1 – What You Need to Know About Diabetes
- Class 2 – Nutrition and Psycho-Social Impacts
- Class 3 – Exercise and Medications
- Class 4 – Complications and Health Behaviors
- 1-hour follow-up group class at three months
After your initial year of education, you are eligible to participate in two additional hours of diabetes education each year thereafter. Classes are held at all of The Villages Health care center locations.
Diabetes Education Costs
- UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage pays for 100% of diabetes education.
- Medicare covers 80% of program costs; patient is responsible for remaining 20%.
- A self-pay option is available for commercial insurance members.
Medical Nutrition Therapy
Medical Nutrition Therapy is provided to individuals with diabetes, chronic kidney disease stage 3 or higher, and post-renal transplant patients. The therapy allows you to customize meal plans in ways that maximize your favorite items while better controlling your condition.
Three hours of one-on-one sessions with a Registered Dietitian are provided in the initial year of education, and patients receive an additional two hours of one-on-one sessions each year thereafter.
The Villages Health Medical Nutrition Therapy program consists of:
- 1-hour individual needs assessment
- 30-minute follow-up appointments
Medical Nutrition Therapy Costs
- UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage covers 100% of program costs.
- Medicare pays for 100% of program costs.
- A self-pay option is available for commercial insurance members.
Questions?
Email The Villages Health Diabetes Education and Medical Nutrition Therapy department or call 352-674-1770.