Saint Francis Health System has eight endocrinologists, two nurse diabetes educators and two dietitians specializing in diabetes management on staff. Two years ago, the system fully revamped its endocrinology department to better serve its state, which has one of the highest Type 2 diabetes cases in the nation. The system’s multidisciplinary approach includes primary care, ophthalmology, cardiology, nephrology, lifestyle medicine and podiatry. Through its Medicare Advantage program, the system has 1,900 people with diabetes assigned to primary care providers who offer educational classes, gestational diabetes courses and insulin pump training. The system also offers a premier gym and gym classes for its diabetes patients for free. In 2024, the system plans to launch a lifestyle medicine program for patients with diabetes. The program helps patients track six pillars of health, including healthful eating, physical activity, improving sleep, managing stress, forming relationships and avoiding risky substances.
