Baptist Hospital East offers a series of three classes to review the basics of diabetes control with persons previously diagnosed with diabetes and to reinforce physician orders for those who have been newly diagnosed. Classes are held quarterly, Monday through Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. on the second floor of the hospital's Education Center. The following topics are covered:

Session I (Monday)
During the first session, a physician explains what diabetes is and the importance of good blood sugar control and a chaplain discusses coping with the changes a diagnosis of diabetes brings.

Session II (Tuesday)
During the second session, a pharmacist explains diabetes medications, including types, actions and interactions with other drugs and a nurse clinical specialist explains high and low blood glucose and how blood and urine are monitored at home.

Session III (Wednesday)
During the third session, a physical therapist discusses the importance of exercise and its benefits for diabetics and a nurse clinical specialist explains general health and chronic complications, travel, community resources, benefits of good diabetes care.

Class fees are typically covered by insurance. Friends and family are invited at no extra charge.

Classes for 2008 are:

• July 14, 15, 16
• Aug. 11, 12, 13
• Sept. 8, 9, 10
• Oct. 13, 14, 15
• Nov. 10, 11, 12
• Dec. 8, 9, 10

For more information, or to register, please call (502) 897-8831.