Frequently Asked Questions

The Living Smart Diabetes Self Management Program is designed to teach patients who have diabetes how to a healthy, happy and productive life. Patients will have access to a team of experts who are here to assist with your care and to teach you how to live with diabetes. The following is a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the value of our program.

Why should I attend a diabetes education class?
Diabetes Education Classes will help better manage your diabetes and reduce your risks of complications.

What will I learn in class?
Diabetes Education includes Individual assessment and group sessions on diabetes basics, nutrition, carbohydrate counting (including food labels), blood sugar monitoring, medications, foot and eye care, reducing complications, physical activity and Insulin therapy.

Where are the classes held?
Classes currently held at site approved local hospitals and the Living Smart conference rooms in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Venice and North Port, Florida.

What times are the classes held?
It depends on the location and class volume. We offer Saturday, daytime and evening sessions and add classes depending on demand.

Who sponsors the program?
Living Smart Diabetes Self-Management Program is an American Diabetes Association Recognized Program which is sponsored by the office of Lenita Hanson MD. F.A.C.E. a board certified endocrinologist.

Who will teach the class?
Classes are taught by Certified Diabetes Educators, Registered Nurses, Certified insulin pump trainers and Registered Dietitians. Dr. Hanson and her Nurse Practitioner are both certified in diabetes education and insulin pump training and will also assist at times with teaching.

What does the program cost?
Classes are not free. Your insurance will be billed based on the number of class hours. Medicare and most insurance will cover the class. We will verify your insurance coverage before you attend the class and notify you of any out of pocket expense ahead of time.

How do I register for a class?
Please provide us by telephone, fax or Email with your name, address, phone number, the full name and phone number of your doctor and the classes you would like to attend. Living Smart will contact you regarding insurance coverage, class dates and times and any special needs that you may have. Please get in touch with us.

Our contact information is provided below:

Lenita Hanson, M.D.,P.A.
389 Commercial Court, Suite A
Venice, Florida 34292
Phone: 941-484-1200
Fax: 941-484-1244

What do I bring to class?
Living Smart will provide you with all the materials you will need at class. We do ask that you bring your glucose meter and a test strip with you. A free meal is provided at all classes which last 4 or more hours.

What if I have to cancel a class?
All of our classes are ongoing on a monthly basis and can be taken separately so it is easy for you to reschedule a class. We keep our class sizes small so we ask that you notify us as early as possible so that someone else may take your spot.

Can I bring a guest?
Yes, if the guest is a household member or your main support person who does not have diabetes. All persons with diabetes must be registered to attend any of our classes.

For any further questions, please e-mail us or call Living Smart at 941-484-1200