Today, more than 6,776 CHC/SEK patients are living with diabetes – the highest number in our history. We are proud to say that 5,052 of our patients have a controlled A1C, a test that helps monitor diabetes by measuring the average amount of sugar in a person’s blood over a three-month period. A controlled A1C is important for reducing the risk of complications associated with diabetes. As our patient population grows, our promise stays the same: to offer accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to all.
At CHC/SEK, diabetes care starts with understanding each individual patient’s needs. We welcome every patient with compassion and a team ready to support them through every question, every challenge, and each step toward better health.
For many patients, managing diabetes on a day-to-day basis can feel confusing or difficult — especially at home, when questions or problems come up. That is why education is such an important part of what we do. Jennelle Knight, PharmD, CDCES, Clinical Pharmacy Services Manager, helps patients understand their condition, medications, labs, and how to use devices like insulin pumps. “I meet with patients to help them build the confidence and skills they need to manage their diabetes at home,” she shared. “My goal is to make sure they never feel alone or unsure once they walk out of the doctor’s office.”
Jennelle provides in-person diabetes education at our Iola, Fort Scott, Pittsburg, and Coffeyville locations. She also talks with patients over the phone, so they can still get the help they need if they can’t come into one of our clinics.
The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetes patients receive education every year. This is because guidance changes over time — and because it is easy to forget information, especially when one is first diagnosed. Ongoing education helps patients stay confident and understand how things like illness, dietary changes, daily stress, or changes in routine can affect their blood sugar.
CHC has a team dedicated to caring for patients who have diabetes. CHC has two Diabetes Care Specialists who are board-certified in diabetes: Rebecca French, BC-ADM, GNP-C, DNP, APRN-C, has been board-certified since July 2020 and Courtney Kelso, APRN, FNP-BC, CDCES, who recently passed her board exam. As Diabetes Care Specialists, they help patients with medication management, device management, and diabetes consultation.
CHC/SEK also has four health coaches: Amber Reinecke, Amber Findley, Sara Weber, and Tiffany Coleman. They support patients with continuous glucose monitors (CGM), glucometers, prior authorizations for diabetes supplies and equipment, and schedule education for insulin pumps. Fundoscopic eye exams, which involve examining the back part of the eye, are also offered. Lastly, they connect patients with resources, such as dental care, that can help patients live healthier, happier lives.
Nutrition and lifestyle play a big part in diabetes care. Dietitian, Sherise Beckham, RDN, and wellness team — staffed by Sunni Stipp, certified personal trainer, Samantha Curran, PT, and Jennifer Gilmore, PT — work closely with patients to build healthier habits and support their overall wellness.
As CHC continues to care for more patients with diabetes, our mission remains focused on providing accessible, comprehensive, and compassionate care to all. Through education, teamwork, and patient support, we strive to help patients navigate diabetes with confidence.
To schedule an appointment for any diabetes service, please call 620-231-9873.