Diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 17 million people in the United States have Diabetes, or just over 60% of the population.

In response to the increasing diabetes-hospitalization rates over the past 20 years, Alta Bates Summit Medical Center continues to support its Diabetes Center, developed in the early 1990’s. The goal of the center is to provide diabetes self-management education to people with diabetes and to act as a resource in expert diabetes care.

In addition to the Diabetes Center, a major initiative of our Ethnic Health Institute (EHI) is diabetes. EHI provides training for health care professionals as well a wide variety community education outreach efforts.

For the 2005-2007 Community Benefit Plan, focus was given to collaboration with the Alameda Health Consortium clinics on the Consortium’s initiative to identify and provide education to individuals with pre-diabetes, including weight management and nutrition activities.

2005-2007 Goal

• To decrease the incidence of Diabetes in Alameda County

2005-2007 Cumulative Outcomes

1. The Diabetes Center began pre‐diabetes classes on site. In addition, power point presentations were developed about pre‐diabetes. Presentations were made to various groups including coast guard, nursing homes, school programs, youth centers and churches. Generally four or more community presentations were made monthly.
   
2. The Diabetes Center designed and implemented a “continuum of care” at Alta Bates Summit to provide outpatient services needed for patients with Diabetes‐‐‐providing educational materials, glucose meters and other equipment necessary to transition from hospital to home with continuity. Each month, 50 or more patients are provided with the resources needed for improved outcomes for selfmanagement.