New Fact Sheet on Expanded Medicare Coverage of Diabetes Services

Format: Fact Sheet
Institute: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

There is a new, easy-to-read fact sheet about Medicare and diabetes, called Expanded Medicare Coverage of Diabetes Services, published by the National Diabetes Education Program. It covers the latest information on diabetes self-management training, medical nutrition therapy services, and other diabetes benefits covered by Medicare.

Self-management training helps individuals learn to successfully manage their diabetes. This doctor-prescribed training includes how to manage blood glucose (blood sugar), make informed choices about nutrition and exercise, and prevent and treat complications. Diabetes patients can also receive doctor-prescribed medical nutrition therapy services that are provided by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional. These services include a review of current eating habits, nutrition counseling (what foods to eat), how to manage lifestyle factors that affect your food choices, and follow-up visits.

NDEP is a partnership of the NIH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and more than 200 public and private organizations working together to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes.

Next Steps
For further information about the fact sheet view http://ndep.nih.gov/diabetes/EMCDS/emcds1.htm. Printable copies are available in English or Spanish at www.ndep.nih.gov/diabetes/pubs/catalog.htm#PubsPatCont or by calling (800) 438-5383. This fact sheet is an excellent companion to NDEP’s brochure, The Power to Control Diabetes is in Your Hands, which focuses on the importance of blood glucose testing. It can also be ordered via the Web address or phone number listed above.