Diabetes Self-Management and Education

The YMCA of Florida’s First Coast Diabetes Self-Management and Education (DSME) program is recommended for anyone with a new diagnosis of diabetes or for those that are struggling with the management of their diabetes, who have not previously attended a DSME program.


Program Overview

This program consists of 8 one-hour weekly sessions held in a small group setting. It covers detailed information on nutrition, exercise, monitoring, medications, reducing risks and stress management.

Who can participate?

This program is open to anyone who is over the age of 18 and has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Program Details

In a small group setting our ADCES certified Diabetes Community Care Coordinators will lead discussions, in a safe environment, that help participants make better self-management decisions in managing their diabetes.

Topics of Discussion:

  • Healthy Coping Strategies
  • Problem Solving
  • Healthy Eating
  • Being Active
  • Taking Medication
  • Monitoring
  • Reducing Risks

Program Costs

YMCA of Florida’s First Coast Diabetes Self-Management Education 8-week program cost $99. Financial Assistance is available (lowers costs to $50).

Program Locations

Coming Soon!!!

Exact locations and times/days TBD


The Need

The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists ADCES has identified four critical points at which to provide and modify diabetes self-management education and support:

  1. At diagnosis
  2. Annually and/or when not meeting treatment targets
  3. When complicating factors develop
  4. When transitions in life and care occur

The YMCA of Florida’s First Coast is working towards program accreditation by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (ADCES).

In 2022, the Jacksonville area hospitals put out a community health needs assessment report. This report confirmed our need in the community of evidence based chronic disease programming. The community health needs assessment confirmed the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast number once focus for 2023 on Diabetes Prevention, Diabetes Management, and Heart Health management are needed in the community.


For more information:

Email myhealth@fcymca.org or call 904.265.1777.