Complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney issues, and vision problems, can lead to increased medical expenses and a diminished quality of life. Socioeconomic factors in Warrenton, including limited access to healthcare and nutritious food, further complicate diabetes management and prevention efforts. Warren County Health Department engages residents who have diabetes with the Diabetes Empowerment Education Program, also known as DEEP™, which is an evidence-based curriculum designed to help people with pre-diabetes, diabetes, relatives, and caregivers better understand diabetes self-care. The diabetes program is a 6-week program that is held once per week. This class teaches participants how to manage their diabetes. The Diabetes Empowerment Education Program™ (DEEP™) is a Medicare-approved, evidence-based diabetes self-management education (DSME) program for people with prediabetes or diabetes and their loved ones. All classes are free. The University of Illinois Chicago developed DEEP.  

Program participants have seen the following improved outcomes with DEEP:

• lower A1c levels and systolic blood pressure
• diabetes knowledge
• more physical activity
• following a healthy eating plan
• better foot care
• glucose self-monitoring
• medication adherence
• perceived confidence in self-care

Two Warren County Health Department employees are trained Diabetes Certified Leader Trainers through the University of Chicago.

14 additional people trained to become Diabetes Peer Educators to teach the DEEP Diabetes Education Program.

• The Diabetes DEEP Program continues its partnership with the Warren County Senior Center. 
• Recertification of 3 peer educators June 2023
• Diabetes class held April 2023 with 9 participants
• Diabetes class held July 2023 with 9 participants

The Diabetes DEEP Program continues its partnership with the Warren County Senior Center. There were only 2 classes in 2024.

Class Start date: February 12, 2024

Four participants

3 Female, 1 Male 

Class start date: September 16, 2024

Nine participants 

7 Female, 3 Male

The Diabetes DEEP Program is ongoing in collaboration with the Warren County Senior Center, with plans to conduct two classes by the end of 2025. The inaugural class began on June 26, 2025, with a pre-test administered at the start of the curriculum. The final session for this first class is expected to take place on August 14, 2025.

First class started: June 26, 2026

Six participants

6 Female