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Diabetes Program

The Sault Tribe Diabetes and Nutrition Programs offer various services to help you deal with diabetes.

The Tribe’s diabetes educators (nurses and dietitians) help you learn how to take care of yourself , guiding you through treatment and helping with any fears, issues, and problems along the way.

We see people for

• Type 1 and type 2 diabetes
• Weight loss
• Gestational diabetes or pregnancy with pre-existing diabetes (Tribal members only)
• Kidney disease related to diabetes
• High cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure 
• Increased risk for developing diabetes, heart disease, or chronic kidney disease.

Educational Services

Group Classes

Group classes on various topics are offered regularly throughout the year. These classes are nice for people who prefer a supportive group setting while learning, or who want a lot of information quickly. Watch the papers for class advertisements or call the health center in your area.

Individual Counseling

Sessions may be scheduled to discuss topics such as:

• Eating for a healthy heart
• Carbohydrate counting
• Diabetes medications
• Blood glucose (sugar) monitoring
• Goals for management
• Weight loss
• Getting diabetes under control

Diabetes can be frustrating. Working with a diabetes educator, you can learn to handle many of the challenges diabetes presents.
                      
Eligibility

Sault Tribe members are eligible for counseling services at no charge. Native American members of other federally recognized Tribes, non-Native spouses, and employees are also eligible if they receive medical care from our Tribal providers. Non-Natives, however, might be billed for certain one-on-one services. Group classes are open to everyone in the community at no charge.

Teamwork

You don't have to manage diabetes alone. The Tribe is here to help.

The Tribe’s diabetes team will work with you and your doctor or nurse practitioner to achieve better management of blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol values.

We will also partner with other Sault Tribe Health Programs to provide a well rounded plan of care designed just for you. Services might include nutrition, a physical activity plan, medication management, stress management, a weight loss plan, and/or smoking cessation.

When you join the Diabetes team you will learn how to:

• Improve your confidence in your ability to manage your diabetes.
• Balance your eating, physical activity, medication, and blood sugar monitoring routines. 
• Incorporate lifestyle needs, such as cultural eating habits and exercise preferences, into your management plan.
• Prevent, recognize and treat high and low blood sugars, and establish a plan for sick days.
• Develop healthy coping strategies and problem-solving skills.
• Prevent, recognize, and treat foot problems and other complications.

For more information about the Sault Tribe’s Diabetes and Nutrition Programs, call the Tribal health center closest to you