Chronic Disease Management

If you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, BCHC is here to help. Our providers can create a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatment for diabetes requires keeping close watch over your blood sugar levels (and keeping them at a goal set by your doctor) with a combination of medications, exercise, and diet. You may also need other professionals on your team including an Optometrist, Podiatrist and Nutritionist, who are conveniently available at BCHC.

Podiatry - you should see a podiatrist regularly because you are at risk for developing diabetic neuropathy — loss of feeling in the feet. Combined with possible poor circulation in the legs, the damage can bring on complications like trouble walking, infected sores or cuts and, in the worst cases, amputation of toes, feet or limbs.

Optometry - Diabetics are at risk for developing eye damage that can cause loss of vision, and even blindness. There is also increased risk of problems like glaucoma or cataracts. It is important to have regular vision exams, at least once a year, in order to detect any developing problems.

Nutrition - Your Primary Care Provider might refer you for nutrition counseling to help with your diabetes. Eating a balanced diet is vital for people who have diabetes, our dietitian can help set up a menu plan. A healthy balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in your diet will help keep your blood glucose on target.

Controlling high blood pressure is critical. Hypertension causes your blood pressure to get so high that your heart has to work much harder than normal and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Risk factors include obesity, drinking too much alcohol, smoking and family history. But even if you have hypertension for years, lifestyle changes, medicines, or both can help bring your blood pressure to normal. BCHC has Registered Dietitians to help you eat a healthy diet including reducing sodium and fat. Combined with being physically active and potential medication, blood pressure can be controlled to a normal level.

Symptoms of Asthma, an inflammatory disease of the airway, include wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Easily controlled with medication, BCHC Primary Care Providers can help you manage your condition and ease your symptoms. Home remedies like exercise and losing weight can also help. BCHC’s Registered Dietitians can help you develop a plan to incorporate those remedies in your lifestyle.

People who are obese or overweight are at an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and many more diseases. Your Primary Care Provider at BCHC can work with you and one of our Registered Dietitians to create a plan to lose weight to a more healthy level. A combination of a well-balanced diet and exercise can help you lose weight. Let us work with you to make that happen.