CVMG Diabetes Education Class impacts community
Cucamonga Valley Medical Group recently completed a seven-week Diabetes Education Class that focused on healthy nutrition and provided the community an opportunity to take important steps to a healthier lifestyle.
Certified Diabetes Educator Noe Lopez, RN, and Maria Rojas, Hispanic community educator, were instructors during the weekly classes, which began on May 9 and concluded on June 20 at the North Fontana location. Approximately 10 people participated in the class and most of those were CVMG patients.
A holistic approach
Noe Lopez said the program delves into much more than managing a healthy diet. It’s about a comprehensive approach to a healthier lifestyle.
“I want to provide holistic health to our community members,” Lopez said. “In other words, by attending our program, our goal is to improve every aspect of their lives. Providing diabetes education involves much more than just teaching a person how to balance their meals. It involves motivating patients to start an exercise routine or finding new ways to manage their stress.”
“I know I have done well when the patient is gaining self-confidence and is successful each week at accomplishing a new goal,” she added.
Prevent, manage chronic conditions
Rojas said prevention of chronic conditions through healthier choices is key. Managing such chronic conditions once they develop is just as important.
The Diabetes Education Class addressed ways to prevent and manage those chronic conditions.
“I have enjoyed being a Promotora (community health worker) for many years,” Rojas said. “I am interested in improving the health of others to prevent or manage chronic conditions. I also like that the workshops that I lead can help the individual spiritually, emotionally and physically. Mente sana en cuerpo sano (Healthy mind in healthy body).”
Positive feedback
The classes made quite an impression on those in attendance. Among the comments to the instructors throughout the classes were:
