According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 29 million people have diabetes in the United States. One in four people do not know they have diabetes. Another 89 million adults, one out of three adults, have pre-diabetes.
Closer to home, Halifax and Northampton Counties have some of the highest rates of diabetes in the state.
Groups at higher risk for developing the disease are African-Americans, Latinos, and American Indians.
Serving more than people living with diabetes, the Roanoke Valley Diabetes Resource Center is an information hub for physicians and family members caring for a person with diabetes.
Staffed by an experienced nurse with specialized diabetes training, the center will work closely with partner agencies in the community to coordinate services and information for area diabetics and persons at risk for diabetes.
The staff wants the community to see the resource center as a one-stop shop people can contact to get guidance and be connected to a wide range of resources available to them.
All services provided at the resources center are free.
In addition to being a major hub of information, the Roanoke Valley Diabetes Center will offer free screenings such as blood pressure, A1C, and blood sugar checks by appointment.
The resource center has an available hotline — 252-535-8478 — to answer general questions or direct callers to additional sources.
Staffing the Roanoke Valley Diabetes Resource Center is Kim McDermott, a registered nurse.
Born and raised in Roanoke Rapids, she earned an associate’s degree from Halifax Community College and went on to work for Halifax Regional Medical Center.
McDermott has 17 years of healthcare experience and has experience and specialized training working with diabetics.
The Roanoke Valley Diabetes Center is located at 210 Smith Church Road, Building 1 on the medical campus of Halifax Regional.
The resource center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
To schedule a screening appointment or learn more about available diabetes education and resources, contact McDermott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 252-535-8478.
