12-3-12 Feature Story:
Neighborhood Health Plan (NHP), the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Harbor Health Services and the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers (the League) teamed up during National Diabetes Month to raise awareness about diabetes and the many people who are impacted by the disease.
On Saturday, November 17, Harbor Health Services hosted "Living Well with Diabetes: A Healthy Thanksgiving Event," to provide individuals living with diabetes the tools they need to live an active and healthy life. The event took place at Harbor Health Services' Elder Service Plan, 1135 Morton Street, Mattapan.
The free event was staffed by pharmacists, pharmacy students, nurses, dentists, dental hygienists, optometrists and other employees from seven Boston health centers that included Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, Geiger Gibson Community Health Center, Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center, Mattapan Community Health Center, Neponset Health Center, South End Community Health Center and Whittier Street Health Center.
In addition to providing eye, cholesterol and glucose screenings, health center clinicians developed educational classes about managing diabetes, one of which included a Family Feud-style game designed to increase patient awareness around diabetes medication adherence. Other highlights included the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation declaring November 17 as Boston Health Centers Fight Back Against Diabetes Day by Gerry Thomas, Director of Community Initiatives for the Boston Public Health Commission; acupuncture sessions; a cooking demonstration led by the ADA on how to make a healthier version of a Thanksgiving apple crisp; and a Zumba dance class geared for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Financial support was provided by NHP and the League. Special thanks to Harbor Health Services for leading the event and providing the space at its Morton Street location. Click here to view media coverage of the event.
