At Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), diabetes care encompasses more than just managing blood sugar. The medical center employs a multidisciplinary approach that leverages the expertise of providers across multiple departments. In addition to Endocrinology, specialties such as Family Medicine, Wound Care, Podiatry and OB/GYN each contribute to addressing the many ways diabetes can affect the body. This integrated approach allows providers to focus on the whole patient, treating both the condition and any complications that may arise. Whether it is managing chronic wounds, supporting healthy pregnancies or addressing nerve and foot issues, PMC offers care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Education is also a critical part of PMC’s diabetes care strategy. With diabetes being one of the most common and impactful health issues in the region, PMC provides a variety of educational resources, including diabetes management classes, gestational and pre-pregnancy classes, and a monthly diabetes support group designed to connect patients with ongoing encouragement and guidance. Diabetes Care Specialist and Diabetes Educator Mavis Lowe, MSN, APRN, places a strong emphasis on equipping patients and their families with the knowledge they need to manage the condition effectively. Lowe specializes in Endocrinology, along with Diabetes Care and Education.

PMC’s monthly diabetes support group generally meets on the last Monday of each month from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM in café room #3 on the 11 floor of the hospital. All members of the community are welcome to attend to learn about diabetes care and management and receive extra guidance on their journey.

To learn more about diabetes care and education at Pikeville Medical Center, visit www.pikevillehospital.org/diabetes-care or call (606) 430-8120.

PMC is proud to welcome Endocrinologist Dr. Marvin Bishop, MD, MBA, to the PMC Endocrinology team. Dr. Bishop is board-certified in Endocrinology, Internal Medicine, and Addiction Medicine, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the region. He received his education and training from highly accredited and nationally recognized institutions, including the University of Kentucky and the University of Cincinnati Hospital.

In addition, PMC is pleased to welcome Susana Carter, MSN, APRN, to the Endocrinology team. Carter specializes in Endocrinology care and holds degrees in both Biology and Nursing. She also brings a wide range of certifications and clinical skills in nursing care.

Dr. Bishop and Carter work closely with Diabetes Care Specialist and Diabetes Educator Mavis Lowe, MSN, APRN, to diagnose and treat a variety of endocrine-related conditions, including hormone imbalances, fertility issues, thyroid disorders, and both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

With a shared commitment to excellence, the PMC Endocrinology team combines advanced clinical knowledge with compassionate, patient-centered care to improve outcomes for individuals across the region.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, talk to your doctor about a referral or visit www.pikevillehospital.org.

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Because diabetes can be silent for many years with few or no symptoms, many patients have no idea they are at a higher risk of developing long-term complications that can affect their eyes, nerves, kidneys and other parts of their body. According to the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 7.3 million cases remain undiagnosed, and about 88 million adults have prediabetes, putting them at serious risk of developing diabetes. With such staggering statistics, it’s clear that diabetes awareness is essential. Health experts and community leaders use November as a time to collaborate and promote knowledge about diabetes risk factors, prevention, symptoms and management strategies.

Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) staffs an experienced diabetes education team dedicated to supporting patients with diabetes. This team works with patients and their families to offer information through comprehensive diabetes education programs.

The PMC Diabetes Support Group offers emotional and practical support to those living with the condition, providing a safe space to share experiences and tips for managing diabetes. Members find the support group beneficial during the holidays when temptations to overindulge are typically at their highest and managing blood sugar levels is particularly challenging.

The holiday season, which kicks off with Thanksgiving and extends through the new year, is synonymous with celebrations, gatherings and opportunities to indulge in delicious, often sugary foods. By sharing knowledge, promoting healthier choices and offering support, the hope is that more people will be able to enjoy the festive season with their health in mind.

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