By 2050, when seniors are predicted to make up 21 percent of the U.S. population, the incidence of diabetes is expected to double. Already considered an epidemic, it affects nearly 21 percent of people age 60 and older. Half of all intensive care patients in the Mills-Peninsula system also have diabetes.

The goals of the Diabetes Center of Excellence are to engage with the community to reduce the incidence of Type 2 diabetes and provide excellent care to improve the quality of life for people who have this chronic disease. 

To create and sustain an effective diabetes program, a multidisciplinary approach will be taken and involve several medical specialties including cardiovascular, neurosciences and orthopedic care. 

Diabetes has multiple related impacts on many parts of the body, such as the heart, nerves, eyes, feet and kidneys. Diabetes can also make people more susceptible to falls, injuries and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease – which is why treating diabetes is tied to every aspect of Mills-Peninsula’s vision for a healthier community.

Key Features

The Diabetes Center of Excellence will: 

• Expand the current diabetes information system to keep members of the healthcare team informed on the status of patients
• Provide access to a team of diabetes resources including endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists, nephrologists, cardiologists, clinical nurse specialists, exercise physiologists, dieticians and health coaches
• Equip patients and families for ongoing diabetes self-care to reduce acute conditions and side effects and limit the need for hospitalization
• Demonstrate quality performance as measured by Medicare and the Integrated Healthcare Association
• Improve patient- and family-centered hospital discharge and follow-up care