Blue Care Network of Michigan
2010 Plan information
Diabetes management program
For more information call:
1-877-469-2583
TTY 1-800-481-8704
Seven days a week
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that converts sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. There are two major types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas stops producing insulin. It means your body cannot make the insulin it needs to use sugar.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas makes some insulin, but either it is not enough or the body’s cells do not use it correctly. Contributing factors are thought to be inactivity, being overweight, exposure to certain viruses that damage the pancreas, and being 45 or older. Having type 2 diabetes increases your risk for many serious complications. Some complications of type 2 diabetes include heart disease (cardiovascular disease), blindness (retinopathy), nerve damage (neuropathy) and kidney damage (nephropathy).
Common symptoms of diabetes
If not managed properly, diabetes can have serious, even life-threatening effects on your health. The following symptoms may indicate a diabetic condition:
- Fatigue
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Infections or cuts that don’t heal
- Blurred vision
- Hunger
- Weight loss
Diabetes Management Program
The Diabetes Management Program is available to all members 18 or older who have been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Members are enrolled automatically based on our records. These programs will help you understand diabetes, how it affects your life and how you can better manage your condition. A few times each year, you will receive the Lifestyles for Diabetes newsletter, which will help you:
- Understand diabetes, its symptoms and treatment
- Learn about different diabetes medications including insulin and oral tablets that help control blood sugar
- Understand how to live a healthier life by improving blood sugar control and minimizing complications
For more information about the Diabetes Management Program and to ask for information about diabetes in children and teens, call 800-392-4247, TTY 800-257-9980, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).
Care management
Case managers provide individual education and counseling, and coordinate care with physicians, for member who need complex care.
© 1996-2010 Blue Care Network of Michigan is a nonprofit corporation and independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
page modified 09/29/2009