University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Diabetes Program
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Diabetes Program
The Arkansas Diabetes Program, certified by the American Diabetes Association, offers services to all providers to assist in the diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus and in the early detection and treatment of complications of diabetes. A multi-disciplinary approach is used to manage all aspects of medical care for patients with diabetes. There are three podiatrists in the clinic specializing in diabetes foot care, along with three diabetes educators and one dietitian. A telephone "Diabetes Information Line" is available for patients with diabetes related problems who have been through the Arkansas Diabetes Program. The Diabetes team also offers expertise in intensive insulin therapy, including insulin pumps and continous glucose monitoring.
SPECIAL SERVICES
Medical Consultation
Medical consultation is available in the diabetes clinic which is held four days per week by specialized diabetologists (Drs. Debra Simmons, Steven Elbein and Neda Rasouli) and supported by other members of the Division of Endocrinology. The aim of the medical aspect of the diabetes program is to achieve as good diabetic control as feasible and desirable for an individual patient, with minimal compromise of lifestyle and work capabilities.
Emphasis is placed on early detection and treatment of complications by liaison and joint care with other specialists including cardiologists, ophthalmologists, vascular surgeons and nephrologists.
Certified Diabetes Educators
The Arkansas Diabetes Program consists of Nationally Certified Diabetes Educators with subspecialties in nursing, nutrition/dietetics and pharmacy. The educators are available for telephone adjustments in insulin dosage, to assist in "fine tuning" diabetes regimens and addressing any patient problems or concerns.
Foot Care
In recognition of the importance of foot care, a multi-disciplinary approach is applied. A podiatrist is available on a part-time basis in the diabetes clinic to facilitate preventative care as well as participate in the diabetes education program. Patients who have more complex foot problems or ulcerations are seen in consultation with the Departments of Orthopedics and Vascular Surgery.
Diabetes and Pregnancy
Joint consultation and care is available between the diabetologists and obstetricians for management of diabetes and pregnancy counseling and intensive diabetes management of patients with type1 diabetes who are planning to get pregnant.
CONCURRENT CARE
The Arkansas Diabetes Program offers concurrent care for patients with diabetes undergoing all surgical and other procedures in hospital, as well as admission to hospital with other medical problems.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
The Arkansas Diabetes Program coordinates the following continuing education opportunities for providers:
Weekly Endocrinology/Diabetes Case Conference
Weekly Journal Club/Research Meeting
Annual State-wide Diabetes Update
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205
1-501-686-7000
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