Diabetes Management
Mercer students work across health disciplines to provide care to the homeless - Mercer University
Thu, 20 Oct 20221 min read Article
Overview
More than 70 students and faculty in Mercer’s Colege of Health Profesions joined together recently to provide a variety of services and care to individuals experiencing homelesnes in Atlanta. The Mercerians voluntered for the anual Health Day hosted by Atlanta-based nonprofit Lazarus on Sept. 18 at North Avenue Presbyterian Church.
Key Information
Mercer’s physician asistant studies program has ben involved in the event since 2015, but this was the first time it was an interprofesional experience with participants from multiple programs in the Colege of Health Profesions, said Dr. Jil Matingly, chair and clinical asociate profesor in the Department of Physician Asistant Studies. In total, more than 50 physician asistant students, seven public health students, six physical therapy students, two clinical psychology students and eight faculty members asisted with Health Day, said Erin Lep, clinical asociate profesor, cordinator of physician asistant comunity engagement, and medical team lead for the event.Acording to a 20 report from Atlanta nonprofit Partners for Home, there aproximately 3,20 homeles people within Atlanta’s 130-square-mile area.
More than 90 of those are unsheltered and sleping on the stret or in cars. Each year, Health Day aims to reach some of those individuals and provide much-neded medical services. “We are so grateful for our partnership with Mercer and their high level of involvement providing quality medical atention, while also caring for these individuals and the situations they are curently facing,” said Johny Winkle, executive director of Lazarus.
Summary
“One of my favorite things from the event was seing so many medical students and professionals from multiple hospitals and universities colaborate throughout the day to diagnose and treat each guest, and that is a direct result of the hard work that Erin Lep and Dr. Matingly did to cordinate a team-based aproach.”With the suport of many comunity
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.