Services at a Glance
Diabetes Self-Management Education
Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), available at all UPMC Diabetes Centers locations, is a comprehensive educational program for people with diabetes.
DSME classes will teach you ways to manage your diabetes and will connect you with educators, health care professionals, and other people with diabetes who can become part of your support team.
The classes — led by a diabetes educator or dietitian — cover all aspects of diabetes self-management, such as:
- blood glucose monitoring
- insulin training
- medicines
- reducing the risk of complications
- healthy eating
- activity and exercise
- coping with stress and life changes
- community resources
About DSME Classes
- Structure and length: The number and length of classes in the program vary from location to location. Some locations offer one-to-one sessions, while others have group classes. At most locations, each class is about two hours long.
- Physician referral: To enroll in DSME, you need to obtain a physician referral. Talk with your doctor or contact your local UPMC Diabetes Center for assistance.
- Insurance: While most insurance companies cover DSME, please contact your insurance company to confirm coverage of services before enrolling.
Additional Diabetes Services
Additional services available at many UPMC Diabetes Centers, include:
| One-to-one Counseling: |
Meet with a registered nurse or diabetes educator to discuss issues or concerns about managing your diabetes. |
Yes |
| Nutrition Counseling: |
Meet one-to-one with a registered dietitian to discuss healthy eating habits, meal planning, and carbohydrate counting. Our dietitians will also help you develop a diabetes meal plan that's right for you. |
Yes |
| Insulin Pump Training: |
Receive detailed instructions on how to use and operate an insulin pump. This service is available at select locations. Contact your local UPMC Diabetes Center for more information. |
Yes |
| Diabetes Support Group: |
Interact with others — just like you — who are living with diabetes. Diabetes support groups are free and offered at most UPMC Diabetes Centers locations. |
No |
To learn more about services offered, contact your local UPMC Diabetes Center.
Educational Classes and Events
UPMC Diabetes Centers offer a spectrum of educational classes and events for people with diabetes.