Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in New York City, and HHC facilities are battling the disease on many fronts. Through free screenings, and increased attention to early diabetes detection in clinical visits, HHC can now treat patients earlier in the disease cycle. That means helping a community of more than 58,000 New Yorkers get healthy.

One effective tool in curbing diabetes is the electronic diabetes registry, which was piloted at Queens and Elmhurst Hospital Centers. The registry is a web-based tool that uses information from HHC's advanced electronic medical records data, provides a real-time "snapshot" of ongoing patient care—blood sugar levels, medications prescribed, even data about necessary eye tests and foot exams. The information enables doctors to give more targeted, evidence-based treatment and makes possible better-controlled blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This works to reduce the risk of such severe complications as heart trouble, blindness and kidney failure.

To help diabetic patients become more active participants in their healthcare, HHC has published a Diabetes Wellness Center web site, where they can get tips and resources to get their blood sugar under control. The web site features advice from HHC doctors, nurses and nutritionists, patient success stories, healthy eating and exercise tips, access to free blood monitors, and a comprehensive list of support groups and diabetes wellness classes available in all HHC facilities.

Learn more about HHC's many successful programs to help diabetic patients get healthy and stay healthy.

HHC has top quality care for diabetic patients and regular support groups, where patients can meet others who are also managing their diabetes. Visit our Diabetes Wellness Center to find Care Centers and Support Groups throughout New York City.