Additional inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
Diabetes Program
Mission Statement: To Improve the Quality of Life For Native Peoples on the Seneca Territories Through the Prevention and Control of Diabetes
The Diabetes Program provides one to one diabetes education, nutrition counseling, support groups, and exercise programs that include an individualized exercise plan using state of the art equipment.
At the Seneca Nation Health System we offer various ways to treat and combat Diabetes.
Nutrition - Schedule an appointment with a Registered Dietitian for a nutrition consultation to learn more about how your food choices affect your health. The folowing are just a few areas which nutrition counseling can specifically help you: weight loss, diabetes control and prediabetes, healthy heart and heart related conditions, high cholesterol, pre/post bariatric counseling. Healthy cooking demonstrations are also offered to the community.
Diabetes Education - Our Certified Diabetes Educators (CDE) are here to help you manage your diabetes and prevent complications of uncontrolled blood sugars. We are available for 1:1 education appointments for any concerns related to diabetes.
Support Groups - having diabetes is a challenging disease and support groups are important and helpful for both persons with the condition and also the family and support person. “Lifegroup” is the diabetes support group on the Allegany Territory. A support group at the Cattaraugus Territory is on hold due to staff shortage.
Kidney Smart – Take control of your kidney health by attending this 90-minute class. The Certified Kidney Educator will share what causes kidney disease and how to delay its progression. It also provides diet resources to help you manage your diet to help keep your kidneys healthy or prevent further damage. This program is aimed at anyone with diabetes or any type of kidney health issues.
Veggie Bucks - “Veggie Bucks” are coupons which can be redeemed at local Farmer’s Markets for fresh vegetables and fruit. They can be earned through meeting with a Diabetes Unit Staff member for education or exercise. They are a reward for healthy behavior!!
Exercise - The exercise program is open to all members receiving services from the Seneca Nation Health System. You do not have to be diagnosed with diabetes to be an active participant of our exercise and wellness services. Our exercise specialists are highly credentialed and nationally certified fitness professionals here to guide you through a safe exercise program to help better achieve your health goals. Using state of the art equipment such as the InBody body composition analyzer, you can precisely map out your progress over time. Speak to your doctor, or stop in today at either the Lionel R. John Health Center in Salamanca or Community Health and Wellness Center in Irving to speak to an exercise specialist to get started!
Community fitness classes - Throughout the year the Diabetes Program offers free fitness classes to the community. They include tai chi, meditation, Vinyasa yoga, chair exercises, mindfulness, introduction to strength and conditioning and more! Please contact an SNHS exercise specialist for more information.