North Central Health District

North Central Health District Adds Hypertension and Diabetes Services

Posted February 3, 2017 by Michael Hokanson

NCHD promotes heart health by adding hypertension and diabetes service to select clinics.

NCHD has taken steps to combat the rise of heart disease and diabetes in Central Georgia by establishing health care services that focus on the screening, treatment and prevention of hypertension and non-insulin dependent diabetes. These initial services will be offered within the health departments of Baldwin, Houston and Macon-Bibb Counties. Each clinic features a variety of services for those living with hypertension and diabetes including physical examinations, bloodwork and other testing, medication and dietary counseling with a registered dietician.

Services are available to everyone. Clients who are uninsured or underinsured can receive care on an income-based sliding scale. Each clinic accepts United Health Care, Medicaid, Aetna and Cigna insurance from clients.

Anyone interested in taking advantage of the newly-offered services is encouraged to call and make an appointment at the Baldwin, Houston or Macon-Bibb County Health Departments. Visit www.northcentralhealthdistrict.org for contact information and directions to your nearest clinic.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Georgia,” said District Nursing Director Dr. Anita Barkin. “And we have seen a rise in diabetes. If we want to see these numbers decrease, we need to increase awareness through education, early detection and effective treatment.” High blood pressure does damage to your arteries and heart without showing obvious symptoms. It can lead to kidney disease, strokes, heart attacks and other complications.

Type 2 diabetes can develop when the body does not use insulin properly which causes the glucose in the body to build up in your blood instead of going to your cells. High blood sugar can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. There is no cure for diabetes or high blood pressure, but both conditions can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

Some factors related to your risk of developing high blood pressure or diabetes are out of your control, like family history, however, you can take steps in your daily life to decrease the risk or gain better control of these diseases. Limiting alcohol, managing your weight and regular exercise can help reduce your risk for heart disease. It is important for everyone to have their blood pressure checked on a regular basis to know if it is in a healthy range or if they should seek treatment.

North Central Health District is dedicated to preventing disease, promoting health and protecting Central Georgia communities against health threats through education, service, advocacy and collaboration. NCHD serves people of all classes and economic status within Baldwin, Crawford, Hancock, Houston, Jasper, Jones, Macon-Bibb, Monroe, Peach, Putnam, Twiggs, Washington and Wilkinson Counties. Appointments can be made for certain services. Fees are based on income for those without insurance. For more information about NCHD, visit www.northcentralhealthdistrict.org and follow us of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.