DeLand, Fla., October 8, 2008 - The Diabetes Center at Florida Hospital DeLand has earned recognition from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) for their Diabetes Education Program

"Achieving ADA recognition for our education program means that we are meeting the rigorous standards of quality required by the American Diabetes Association in order to provide comprehensive education to our community,” said Diabetes Educator Joyce Parrillo, RN, CDE from Florida Hospital DeLand.

Parrillo has taught over 200 patients this year alongside of registered dietician, Luisa Cordero.

There are 23.6 million children and adults in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, who have diabetes, according to the ADA.  While an estimated 17.9 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, 5.7 million people are unaware that they have the disease.

The ADA Education Recognition effort is a voluntary process which assures education programs have met the National Standards for Diabetes Self-management Education Programs. Those who achieve recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide the latest information about diabetes management for participants.

The recognition program was developed in 1986 by the National Diabetes Advisory Board and is endorsed by the diabetes community.  It has grown to become the leading quality assurance mechanism for diabetes self-management educations across the country. 

Part of the ADA’s mission is to improve the lives of persons with diabetes. A major part of that is quality education. The ADA evaluates diabetes education programs to ensure they meet the national standards, which are determined by a task force of individuals from all major organizations and disciplines whose focus is providing the best care and education possible for persons with diabetes.

For more information about Florida Hospital Deland Diabetes Center, call (386) 943-4727.  

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