Liberty Hospital offers support for people with diabetes

This article was first published in The Courier-Tribune on November 11, 2025

Managing diabetes requires daily attention, says Lisa Rystrom, a certified diabetes care and education specialist at Liberty Hospital. Metro Creative

One in 10 American adults has diabetes, and one in four doesn’t even know it. Research shows people who effectively manage their diabetes tend to be healthier and have better quality of life but recognizing and learning how to manage the condition is key.

The diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) program at Liberty Hospital is designed for people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It offers one-on-one education, counseling and follow up to help people fit diabetes care into their daily life and stay on track.

The program is led by Lisa Rystrom, RN, MSN, a certified diabetes care and education specialist.

“Managing diabetes requires daily attention, and that can be overwhelming,” Rystrom said. “We provide a caring and supportive environment where people can learn about their diagnosis and gain the skills they need to stay on top of it.”

Following the DSMES program has been shown to improve cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels. In the long run, the program’s preventive steps can lead to fewer hospitalizations and trips to the emergency room as well as saving money on supplies.

“Managing diabetes can be challenging, but it is absolutely possible,” Rystrom said. “We work with people to set and track their goals, practice diabetes care in their daily routine, build confidence and gain the support of family, friends, community, and their healthcare team.”

Anyone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes qualifies for the DSMES program at Liberty Hospital. Enrolling requires a physician referral, which you can ask for during a visit to a healthcare provider, anytime symptoms change, or a life situation occurs that makes diabetes management harder.

“I think people are more successful when they understand the condition, create a plan that works for them and receive ongoing support and follow up,” Rystrom said. “It’s my passion, and I feel a great sense of fulfillment when a patient gets excited about managing their diabetes and improving their quality of life.”

Learn more about the DSMES program at Liberty Hospital and how to obtain a referral by visiting libertyhospital.org/services/diabetes or calling 816-792-7267.