Living with diabetes.

More than 34 million people have diabetes — that’s about 10.5 percent of the U.S. population. With treatment and support, you can live a healthy, active life.

Diabetes occurs when our bodies fail to produce insulin or use it properly. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose to be used by the cells in our body to make the energy we need to function.

Our team of expert physicians, specialists, and diabetes educators will work with you to manage your diabetes, learn to control your insulin, and prevent or minimize complications. 

Don’t be a statistic. More than 7 million Americans are struggling with undiagnosed diabetes

Symptoms of diabetes.

• Frequent urination
• Feeling very thirsty
• Extreme hunger
• Weight loss
• Blurry vision
• Fatigue
• Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet
• Dry skin
• Sores that heal very slowly
• More infections than typical

Manage your health with diabetes education.

Education is the best weapon in your arsenal against diabetes. Knowing what foods will help or hurt you, knowing how to take your medication, managing the symptoms, and staying healthy are the best ways to keep your diabetes in check. 

Learn more about diabetes nutrition and get answers to our most frequently asked questions

Health First Medical Group Diabetes Self-Management Education Program.

Work with a team of registered dietitians and registered nurses to get the resources and support you need to keep your diabetes under control.

Get set up for success with education on:

• Proper nutrition
• Medication
• Exercise
• Glucose and insulin monitoring
• Preventing complications

The program includes six to eight hours of educational classes that emphasize nutrition and meal planning.

You will also get an individual consultation with a nurse diabetes educator after completing the classes. We also offer two-hour refresher courses each year so you can stay up-to-date.

Class times and locations.

We have multiple options for classes in Melbourne, Merritt Island and Viera:

• A series of two consecutive classes from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with varying days, offered on a weekly basis
• A Saturday class offered monthly
  This program is recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes education is covered by Medicare, Health First Health plans and many other insurance providers. A co-pay may apply.

Call our endocrinology department at 321.361.5561 for more information on obtaining a referral

Diabetes medical nutrition therapy.

Nutrition is crucial to a healthy body and even more so in people with diabetes. Our nutritional therapy sessions teach you which foods are good for you and still taste great. 

Register for individual and group appointments with a registered dietitian for nutritional counseling and individualized meal plans.

We require a physician referral for this program. 

Call our endocrinology department at 321.361.5561 for more information on obtaining a referral.