BARNES-JEWISH & WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY DIABETES CENTER
The Washington University Diabetes Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital is designed to offer an easier way to a better life. The Diabetes Center is an American Diabetes Association nationally recognized quality education program.
The comprehensive Diabetes Center is unique in the region, offering the latest in treatment and technology for patients with diabetes. This treatment includes convenient access to essential services including:
- Clinical care from diabetes physician specialists (endocrinologists) and nurse practitioners
- Computerized 72-hour blood sugar monitoring
- Diabetes education
- Nutrition counseling
- Diabetic foot care
- Laboratory services including blood tests
Patients have access to leading-edge treatment for even the most complicated cases. With a comprehensive, one-stop location for diabetes care, patients are better able to manage their symptoms from diabetes, and possibly avoid potential complications from uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
THE ONE PLACE FOR HEAD-TO-TOE CARE
More than 20 million Americans have diabetes. That's one of out every 16. In addition, about two thirds of people with diabetes have poorly controlled blood sugar, according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. This results in significantly increased incidences of diabetes complications such as:
- Eye problems
- Nerve damage (problems with feet, lower legs or sexual function)
- Frequent infections
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Depression
- Sleep disorders
Through the Diabetes Center, patients with diabetes throughout the Midwest can access the latest advancements in diabetes treatment and a comprehensive range of services in one convenient setting. The Diabetes Center's focus is on making treatment fit your life — so your diabetes is easier for you to manage.
With the multi-specialty team of the Diabetes Center working together, patients enjoy an improved quality and depth of diabetes-related medical treatment. The Diabetes Center, located on the 13th floor of the Center for Advanced Medicine at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, serves as a meaningful resource for patients, their families and their referring physicians. In partnership with referring physicians, the Diabetes Center team of specialists help patients manage complex cases or complications to those newly diagnosed.
The well-planned, comfortable Diabetes Center includes private and group education rooms, as well as a foot care area with a specially designed chair for exams and treatment. We have even designed wider doorways and larger exam tables to ensure your comfort. Our team takes the time to thoroughly evaluate you and provide the individual attention you deserve.
AN EXPERT TEAM ON YOUR SIDE
As you know, diabetes is a complex disease. It is progressive and can affect every part of your body in some way. At the Diabetes Center, you'll benefit from physicians and staff who specialize in diabetes and understand its many facets. The Center will make it easier to manage your disease.
The Diabetes Center enables specialists to work closely together sharing information and collaborating so all your medical and medication needs are addressed. The bottom line is you receive more effective diabetes management.
The Diabetes Center's team includes top-ranked endocrinologists (diabetes specialists) and disease-related specialists, including:
- Ophthalmologists
- Cardiologists
- Neurologists
- Nephrologists (kidney and renal specialists)
- Vascular surgeons
In addition, the team includes diabetes nurse practitioners, certified diabetes nurse educators, registered dietitians and a certified foot nurse. Our medical assistants are all trained to provide a high level of support to our diabetes patients. The team works closely with you and your primary care physician to create an individualized treatment plan. Ultimately, the team is committed to empower you to control your diabetes.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL DOCTOR'S VISIT
Research has shown that diabetes patients can gain from other patients as well as from medical professionals. So we offer innovative group visits where diabetes patients receive instruction from nurse educators and dietitians, share their experiences with other patients, and enjoy some "one-on-one" time with our physicians. It's an easy, convenient way to take advantage of every available resource.
IN-DEPTH CARE NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE
The Diabetes Center offers inpatient and outpatient care, research and education in a warm, caring environment with superior service. One out of four patients admitted to Barnes-Jewish Hospital has diabetes or medical complications resulting from diabetes. If you're hospitalized at Barnes-Jewish Hospital for any reason and also have diabetes, a diabetes nurse educator will consult with you and your physician while you're in the hospital.