Pitt County Health Department's Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) Program aims to address burdens associated with diabetes.  

1. Diabetes Self-Management Education - Educational sessions are led by Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Nurses based on an evidence-based curriculum. Educators work with patients to support informed decision-making, self-care behaviors, and active collaboration with the health care team.

2. Diabetes Support Group - A monthly support group is offered free of charge to assist persons with diabetes and those at risk. The goal is to implement and sustain behaviors needed to manage diabetes. Sessions include cooking demonstrations and interactive learning.

3. Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) - Nutritional counseling provided by a Registered Dietitian involves individualized food and physical activity plans which can aid in glucose, lipid and blood pressure control, weight goals and management of comorbidities. 

4. Community Outreach - Interactive presentations are offered to community members regarding diabetes risk, prevention and management.

5. Collaboration with Medical Providers and Community - Ensures continuity of care between our program and others working with these clients.

6. Minority Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) - An evidence-based curriculum which teaches participants the behaviors necessary to treat pre-diabetes and help prevent development of type 2 diabetes. 

The Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Program targets people with diabetes in Pitt County (as well as some other eastern NC counties).  The current program serves primarily underserved and uninsured / underinsured populations.

Improve hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure, and lipids, enhance role of medications, reduce complications, and increase healthier lifestyle behaviors.

The Diabetes Educator/Registered Dietitian left PCHD in 2023.  Staff members from the Pitt County Wellness/Health Promotion Team are temporarily providing limited DSMES services in order to keep the program going until a new Program Coordinator is hired.