Ozarks Medical Center’s diabetes education program, Living with Diabetes, was recently awarded recognition from the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The award recognizes OMC’s diabetes self-management program, which provides education to individuals with diabetes and caregivers of diabetics. In order to receive Education Recognition, a program must meet national standards and guidelines, including having a staff of knowledgeable health professionals to provide information about diabetes management. The certification is awarded for a four-year period. OMC’s diabetes program is a one-day class that includes presentations by a registered nurse, dietician, physical therapist and pharmacist. During the class, participants learn about possible health complications associated with diabetes, receive education on the importance of nutrition in managing diabetes, plan an individualized exercise program, learn how diabetes medicine works to decrease blood glucose levels and more. OMC’s Living With Diabetes program is open to anyone wanting to learn about diabetes management, however a physician order and a diabetes diagnosis is required by most insurance companies for payment. For more information about the class, talk to your physician. For more information about diabetes education or diabetes support groups, contact OMC Education Services at 417-257-6793.