SVMC Offers Virtual Diabetes Prevention Program

BENNINGTON, VT—December 28, 2020—People with an A1C reading that indicates that they may be headed for a diabetes diagnosis now have extra support to help them avoid the disease, which is irreversible. The year-long Prevent T2 Lifestyle Change Program is virtual and free. The program is scheduled to begin 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 4, 2021 via Zoom.

“Diabetes is a major risk factor for COVID-19 and lots of other debilitating conditions. This class is a proven way to avoid it,” said Paula Haytko, RN, a certified diabetes educator. “And it’s just a fun and interactive way to learn more about how to live a healthier, longer life.”

The class was designed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and it includes one-on-one instruction and exercise. Meeting duration is 1 hour and meets three to four times per month February – May, twice monthly June – July, then monthly through February 2022.

Participants support each other to lower their A1C and prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. They learn proven ways to decrease weight and increased energy. And the same actions that prevent diabetes can prevent heart disease and stroke, as well.

The class is taught by Certified Diabetes Prevention Educator and ACE-Certified Group Fitness Instructor Andrea Malinowski and in cooperation with the Vermont Blueprint for Health and Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), part of Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC).

“I work with participants to develop and implement strategies to sustain a healthier lifestyle through simple, moderate changes,” Malinowski said. “I am excited to be involved with this program and to build on its success.”

Participants will enjoy guest speakers on topics such as nutrition, healthy cooking, physical activity, stress reduction, and more. Free healthy food giveaways will take place in a socially distanced outdoor location. Consistent attendance required for food distribution.

Participants may register online at www.myhealthyvt.org. Participants can contact Kathy Dockum at 802-440-4098 or kathy.dockum@svhealthcare.org with questions and to register.

About:
Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC) is a comprehensive, preeminent, health care system providing exceptional, convenient, and affordable care to the communities of Bennington and Windham Counties of Vermont, eastern Rensselaer and Washington Counties of New York, and northern Berkshire County in Massachusetts. SVHC includes Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center, the Centers for Living and Rehabilitation, and the SVHC Foundation. SVMC includes 25 primary and specialty care practices.

Southwestern Vermont Health Care is among the most lauded small rural health systems in the nation. It ranked forth nationwide for the value of care it provides by the Lown Institute Hospital Index. It is a four-time recipient of the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet® recognition for nursing excellence. It has also received the highest marks possible from The Joint Commission, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the Leapfrog Group. 

Southwestern Vermont Medical Center provides exceptional care without discriminating on the basis of an individual’s age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, language, physical or mental disability, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. Language assistance services, free of charge, are available at 1-800-367-9559.