Have you been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and living in North Carolina? If so, then the Health Extension For Diabetes (HED) program is for you.

About the Program

What is HED?

HED is an American Diabetes Association-recognized and practice-tested community-based diabetes education and support program.

NC State University and NC State Extension adapted the HED program from Clemson University and Clemson Extension to engage participants in rural communities across the state. NC State Extension’s HED program currently serves participants in Bertie, Halifax, and Hertford, counties, with the hopes of expanding to additional counties in the future. 

What’s Involved?

Participants attend eight education sessions every other week in-person or virtually, with optional support group sessions in between.  Personal phone call follow-ups also occur between sessions to promote ongoing connection and encouragement.

You’ll be guided by dedicated NC State Extension Family and Consumer Science (FCS) Agents who partner with Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (CDCES) to deliver sessions.  These individuals will teach you best practices for diabetes care and help you build an action plan that includes delicious recipes, fun workouts, and healthy coping skills.  Over time, small, sustainable changes can have a big impact on your physical and emotional wellness.

Here’s what you’ll learn in HED’s interactive sessions:

HED Program Eligibility

  • 18 years of age of older

  • North Carolina Resident

  • Diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes

  • If you have prediabetes, you do not qualify for the HED program. Please search the National Diabetes Prevention Program website. The link is on our Resources page.

  • Learn about diabetes, its management, and the importance of regular monitoring.

  • Get practical tips on healthy eating, meal planning, and reading food labels.

  • Discover enjoyable ways to stay active and incorporate movement into your daily routine.

  • Understand your medications and how they help control diabetes.

  • Learn how and where to find diabetes management resources when issues arise

  • Take care of your emotional well-being with mindfulness and other healthy coping resources.

  • Understand ways to prevent or delay complications through self care and healthy habits.

  • Diabetes management is a marathon, not a sprint.  Take a moment to celebrate this great achievement and keep moving forward. 

Ready to live well
with diabetes?

Let's do this together. Sign up today!