Diabetes Program

At the USC Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, we believe in a patient-centered approach to diabetes management. We promote this concept through an integrated team approach for adolescents and adults with diabetes mellitus. Programs include multi-specialty medical services, diabetes education for self-management, support group for patients on intensive insulin therapy and opportunity to participate in clinical trials. Our multidisciplinary team includes endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators (CDE) and specialty physicians.

Of the nearly 16 million Americans with diabetes, more than five million do not even know they have the disease. While some are diagnosed during an annual examination, others go undetected for years until a related complication requires them to seek treatment. For this reason, a major objective of the USC Diabetes Program is early detection.

What to Expect as a Patient

At the USC Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, patients undergo a comprehensive history and physical examination to screen for risk factors associated with diabetes, such as arterial hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, etc.

Since some patients may experience problems with their eyes without symptoms, a picture of the retina is taken to assess eye disease.

The heart and nerves are evaluated to detect any neuropathy. Patients are also assessed by a nutritionist and diabetic nurse educator to determine the extent of their knowledge about the varied aspects of the disease. Once the patient assessment is complete, patients and their physicians are given guidelines for different treatment options.

Patients who remain with the program for intensive insulin therapy are trained by diabetic educators and nutritionists. Intensive insulin therapy is also available, with continuous insulin infusion (insulin pump therapy). In addition, the program offers special classes for persons with diabetes who are involved in different sports activities.

Keck School of Medicine – Department of Endocrinology
USC Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes