Dynamic Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist with a proven track record at Devoted Health, excelling in diabetes management and patient education. Adept at developing personalized care plans and fostering strong relationships, I empower individuals to achieve sustainable lifestyle changes while effectively collaborating with healthcare teams to enhance patient outcomes.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist
Devoted Health
Houston
10.2020 - Current
Educated and guided individuals with diabetes to enhance informed healthcare decisions.
Collaborate with a dedicated team to place members at the center of their healthcare journey.
Advocate for informed decision-making, ensuring patients have the knowledge to manage their diabetes effectively.
Conducted one-on-one coaching sessions to discuss behavior change strategies and deliver educational resources, fostering trust and rapport with members.
Conduct and maintain one on one coaching sessions with members to discuss behavior change strategies, deliver educational resources and develop relationship building in order to foster trust, rapport and mutual respect with my members.
Conducted thorough dietary assessments to identify nutritional deficiencies.
Educated clients on food choices and healthy eating habits to empower informed dietary decisions.
Developed personalized nutrition plans for diverse client needs.
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop integrated patient care strategies.
Provided ongoing support and motivation to clients, fostering sustained commitment to wellness goals.
Researched current nutrition trends to inform practice and client recommendations.
Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth)
Houston
11.2019 - 05.2020
Educated patients on lifestyle changes for diabetes management, focusing on nutrition, medication adherence, physical activity, and glucose testing.
Reviewed blood glucose reports with patients and families to enhance understanding of diabetes management and treatment.
Educate patients on blood glucose monitoring, pattern management of blood glucose, insulin administration and safety guidelines, and insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring system training.
Management of diabetics in the clinic, and via phone.
Oversaw diabetic program operations, ensuring compliance with American Diabetes Association guidelines to enhance patient care quality.
Provide diabetes training to clinical staff.
Performed nutrition screening, evaluation and assessment for patients.
Have an advanced understanding of insulin management in pregnancy.
Connected patients with local community resources to support their health needs.
Assist with research projects including data collection and patient requirement.
Communicate with patients on a daily basis reviewing blood sugar reports.
Certified Diabetes Educator, Dietitian IV
Memorial Hermann Health System
Houston
09.2014 - 02.2019
The first RD to serve as the only diabetes expert for the inpatient and outpatient DSMT programs.
Obtained two Anne R. Wilford grants to start the first diabetes prevention program and the first diabetes champion program addressing knowledge deficits among the underserved living with glucose intolerance and also among the bedside nurses in the hospital (500+ RN's).
Chaired Memorial Hermann Clinical Diabetes Council, developing training program for new nurses to deliver effective patient-centered diabetes education at bedside.
Coordinated logistics for successful implementation of outpatient diabetes self-management training program.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to coordinate patient care effectively.
Provided ongoing support for medication management and lifestyle changes.
Developed educational materials to enhance patient learning and engagement in diabetes management.
Certified Diabetes Educator and Registered Dietitian
Lone Star Family Health Center and Residency Program
Conroe
01.2013 - 04.2014
Developed and delivered engaging nutrition education program that improved resident knowledge and patient outcomes.
Conducted group education sessions on nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to implement patient care initiatives, enhancing multidisciplinary support for diabetes management.
Developed individualized care plans tailored to patient needs.
Assessed patient understanding of diabetes management techniques regularly.
Conducted didactics for residents on selected nutrition topics, fostering deeper understanding and application of best practices.
Coordinated activities for ADA-recognized program, ensuring compliance with guidelines.
Facility consisted of 30 family practice residents and 10 faculty which included Ob/Gyn, geriatric, pediatric, dental and cardiology.
Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator
Uniformed Services Family Health Plan
Houston
11.2005 - 11.2013
Contracted with health plan to develop, teach, and maintain first weight loss program, improving member access to effective weight management solutions.
Provided outpatient dietitian services for members with kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and malnutrition, enhancing patient dietary support.
Conducted comprehensive nutritional assessments and evaluations.
Developed personalized nutrition plans for diverse patient populations.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to optimize patient care strategies.
Educated patients on dietary guidelines and healthy lifestyle choices.
Monitored patient progress and adjusted meal plans accordingly.
Certified Diabetes Educator and Registered Dietitian
Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center
Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center
12.2010 - 11.2012
Asked by Director and Endocrinologist to join newly established diabetes education program.
Instrumental in obtaining and maintaining American Diabetes Association accreditation.
Collaborated with Dr. Erani and Ruth Lira, MSN, CDE to develop business plan, enhancing program sustainability.
Educated patients on diabetes management and self-care strategies.
Developed individualized care plans tailored to patient needs.
Conducted group education sessions on nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to enhance patient care initiatives.
Assessed patient understanding of diabetes management techniques regularly.
Provided ongoing support and resources for patients and families.
Executed community outreach programs, increasing diabetes awareness in the community.
Supported marketing efforts by providing information on obesity and diabetes management to physicians and the community.
Clinic closed in November 2012, and I received a promotion to Education Coordinator before that time.
Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator
Diabetes America
Cypress
04.2009 - 12.2010
Delivered Medical Nutrition Therapy for obesity, diabetes, cardiac, and renal patients, enhancing patient health outcomes.
Led Diabetes support group, providing after-hours support to improve patient engagement and management.
Conducted comprehensive nutritional assessments and evaluations.
Developed personalized nutrition plans for diverse patient populations.
Monitored patient progress and adjusted meal plans accordingly.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to optimize patient care strategies.
Provided support and guidance regarding lifestyle changes required for effective management of chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension.
Regional Clinical Specialist, South Central
Roche diagnostics
09.2007 - 04.2009
Managed contracted trainers in assigned states, conducted train the trainer programs, and trained patients on Accu-chek Spirit insulin pump and pump therapy, enhancing trainer readiness and patient education.
Supported Roche Account Managers in assigned states by engaging with physicians, CDEs, and patients to strengthen relationships and promote product awareness.
Products included Accu-chek Spirit Insulin pump system with pocket compass calculator, Accu-chek online learning program and glucose monitors.
Successfully completed, 'The New Conceptual Selling' program.
Completed education on various topics, including business planning and critical thinking skills, to enhance overall professional capabilities.
Senior Sales Associate
Apria Healthcare
Houston
01.2007 - 09.2007
Successfully increased sales of diabetic supply program by 120% in 3 months.
Collaborated with glucose meter companies, including Bayer Healthcare, to enhance product offerings.
Acted as primary resource for employees, physicians, and patients on diabetes management strategies.
Greeted customers and provided exceptional customer service.
Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries.
Managed inventory levels and ensured timely restocking of diabetic supplies.
Contractor
Bayer HealthCare
Houston
11.2005 - 09.2007
Educated Bayer Healthcare Diabetes Care Division on diabetes management programs across multiple settings to improve patient care.
Collaborated with sales to develop programs addressing identified gaps in diabetes management support.
Educated participants in the 'Ask the Educator' program.
Managed project timelines to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline operational processes.
Facilitated resolution of inter-team issues to improve workflow efficiency and enhance overall productivity.
Registered Dietitian
Christine Goodson Medical Nutrition Services
Houston
04.2001 - 09.2007
Established contracts with Medicare and major private healthcare systems to expand patient access to nutrition services.
Built strong relationships with endocrinologists, nephrologists, and primary care physicians to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration.
Focused on managing renal and diabetes-related nutrition for patients.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to seamlessly integrate nutrition into patient care strategies, improving overall health outcomes.
Developed personalized nutrition plans for diverse patient needs.
Educated patients on dietary modifications and healthy eating practices.
Reviewed and updated clinical protocols to ensure best practices in nutrition care.
Certified Diabetes Educator and Registered Dietitian
Dr. Lucy Kormerier, Endocrinologist
Houston
08.2005 - 04.2007
Supported daily operations, ensuring seamless service delivery during part-time shifts.
Provided Medical Nutrition Therapy across diverse disease states, emphasizing diabetes management and facilitating insulin pump training.
Educated patients on diabetes management and lifestyle modifications.
Developed personalized care plans for individuals with diabetes.
Conducted group workshops on nutrition and exercise for diabetic patients.
Regional Sales Manager and Lead Educator
Certified Diabetic Services, Inc.
Houston
09.2003 - 01.2007
Successful sales of diabetic products such as education, glucose monitors, strips and ED pumps to Southwest Texas including Houston, Beaumont, Orange, Galveston, Corpus Christi, McAllen, and Brownsville.
Collaborated with Bayer Healthcare to enhance sales strategies and identify new opportunities.
Promoted to Regional Sales Mgr within the first year.
Managed a team of 6 educators in which I personally picked from a group of CDEs.
Led a team of educators, overseeing training and development initiatives.
Managed six monthly educational classes to enhance participant knowledge.
Participated in yearly curriculum updates, established sites for ADA-recognized DSMT classes, and managed class logistics including setup and breakdown of materials.
Conducted quality assurance and follow-up education after completing the program.
CDS went bankrupt and closed its doors proven in this link: http://www.google.com/finance?cid=12652912.
Diabetes Educator and Registered Dietitian
Memorial Hermann Health System
Houston
09.2001 - 09.2003
Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital: Taught an American Diabetes Association accredited program in group and individual settings.
Monitored patient outcomes, developing curriculum and standards of care models to improve program effectiveness.
Memorial Hermann HBU Wellness Program: Taught the successful program entitled 'Leaner Weigh' weight management program to all area hospitals hourly, Locations: Texas Medical Center, Pasadena, Northwest, Southwest, Katy and Fort Bend.
Dietary Quality Advisor
American Habilitation Services Inc.
Texas
02.1998 - 04.2001
Acted as quality advisor and registered dietitian for 6 large healthcare facilities serving mentally and physically disabled patients.
Specialized in enteral nutrition, TPN management, diabetes care, and food safety protocols.
Conducted annual nutritional assessments on all residents.
Developed location-specific menus and negotiated contracts with Sysco and Glazier Foods to enhance food variety and quality.
Conducted in-services covering food safety and conducted quality checks monthly.
Ensured compliance with quality standards and regulations for client services.
Reviewed and updated quality assurance policies and procedures to align with regulatory standards and enhance service delivery.
Provided training and support to staff on quality improvement initiatives.
Conducted audits to evaluate service delivery and ensure adherence to best practices, driving improvements in client satisfaction.
Collaborated with management to identify areas for process enhancement.
Analyzed client feedback to inform service improvements and strategies.
Conducted internal audits to ensure compliance with established standards and procedures.
Dietitian II
Rusk State Hospital
Rusk
08.1995 - 01.1998
Received the Clinical Dietitian of the Year award among all Texas state-funded facilities for dedication to special projects, including nutrition education curriculum on label reading, diabetes healthy living, and food pyramid.
Conducted comprehensive nutritional assessments for diverse patient populations.
Developed individualized meal plans tailored to specific health conditions.
Collaborated with healthcare teams to enhance patient dietary compliance.
Provided education on nutrition principles and healthy eating, improving patient knowledge and dietary choices.
Reviewed and updated hospital food service policies to ensure nutritional adequacy and align with best practices.
Advised clients on lifestyle changes to improve their overall health and wellness.
Developed individualized meal plans based on patient goals, medical history and dietary restrictions.
Performed full nutritional assessments.
Provided nutrition education and counseling to patients with chronic diseases.
Helped individuals manage chronic illnesses with dietary management strategies.
Monitored client progress towards health goals using weight, BMI measurements, lab values.
Provided nutrition advice about food preparation techniques for improved health outcomes.
Ensured compliance with contractual requirements, enhancing service quality.
Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist at Temple University HospitalCertified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist at Temple University Hospital
Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist at Veterans Affairs Medical CenterCertified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist at Veterans Affairs Medical Center