Oswego Health Promotes Diabetes Awareness Month: Resources for Better Health

(Oswego, NY – October 30, 2024) November is National Diabetes Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about diabetes, a significant public health issue affecting more than 1 in 3 adults in the United States—many of whom are unaware of their prediabetes status. At Oswego Health, we are dedicated to empowering our community to understand and effectively manage diabetes through comprehensive resources and support.

Oswego Health proudly features Paige Barker, BSN, RN, CDCES, as our Certified Diabetic Educator. Paige offers personalized one-on-one counseling sessions designed for individuals living with diabetes. Whether you need assistance with insulin pump training, guidance on managing your condition, or education on diabetic diets, Paige is here to provide the expertise and support you need. To schedule an appointment, please call 315-349-5513.

Additionally, Oswego Health offers a free monthly Diabetes Support Group that is open to all. Led by our Certified Diabetes Educators, this supportive environment allows participants to learn, share experiences, and have their questions answered. The group meets on the 1st Thursday of each month from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Springside at Seneca Hill, 10 County Route 45A, Oswego, NY. Each session focuses on a different diabetes-related topic, fostering a sense of community and support. Reservations are not required. For more information, please call 315-349-5513.

In addition to our diabetic education services, Oswego Health is home to a nationally ranked Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine. Our physician-led team, which includes specially trained nurses and healthcare professionals, is dedicated to treating chronic wounds effectively. For individuals with diabetes, the risk of developing foot ulcers is significant; studies indicate that 15-25% of diabetic patients may experience a foot ulcer during their lifetime. Regular self-foot checks can help identify issues early, improving healing outcomes and reducing the risk of amputation.

Early diagnosis and specialized wound care are essential for managing the risks associated with diabetes. If you have concerns or need assistance, please call our Center for Wound Healing at 315-236-3780.

Understanding the risk factors for diabetes—including age, diet, activity level, obesity, and heredity—is crucial for prevention and management. Additionally, individuals with diabetes face increased risks for chronic wounds due to factors such as high blood sugar levels, poor circulation, immune system issues, and nerve damage (neuropathy). Approximately 60% of people living with diabetes will develop neuropathy, which can lead to foot ulcers. Other conditions, like peripheral artery disease (PAD) and foot deformities, further elevate this risk.

As we observe Diabetes Awareness Month, we invite our community to take proactive steps toward better health. Your health is your most valuable asset, and Oswego Health is here to support you in your journey.

For more information about our diabetic education services or the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine, visit oswegohealth.org.

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About Oswego Health:

The mission of Oswego Health is to provide accessible, quality care and improve the health of residents throughout Oswego County. As a nonprofit healthcare system established in 1881, Oswego Health is proud to be Oswego County’s largest private employer. More than 1,300 employees spread throughout its 18 locations, work for the Oswego Health system, which includes the 132-bed community Oswego Hospital, a 32-bed psychiatric acute-care facility with multiple outpatient behavioral health service locations, The Manor at Seneca Hill, a 120-bed skilled nursing facility, and Springside at Seneca Hill, an independent retirement community.  The health system also operates Oswego Health Home Care, the only hospital-based certified home healthcare agency in the County, as well as two outpatient centers, including the Fulton Medical Center, offering urgent care, lab, medical imaging, physical therapy, and occupational health services, and the Central Square Medical Center, offering urgent care, lab, medical imaging, and physical therapy services. In addition, the healthcare system includes Oswego Health Medical Practice, a multi-specialty medical group offering the community accessible, high-quality healthcare. 100+ physicians and advanced practice providers offer an extensive array of services across CNY, including primary care and specialty care in orthopedics, cardiology, ENT, gastroenterology, breast care, general surgery, urology, and bariatrics; for more information about Oswego Health, visit www.oswegohealth.org