Since 1937, Alton Memorial Hospital has cared for residents in Alton, Illinois, and the surrounding communities in a five-county area. Starting as a land gift to the community from the Smith family, Alton Memorial today is a full-service acute care hospital. Alton Memorial offers patients a variety of inpatient and outpatient services, including surgery services, medical imaging, interventional and diagnostic heart services, cancer care, rehabilitation, 24-hour emergency care, ambulance services and more. The Alton Memorial Hospital Diabetes Care Center is an American Diabetes Association recognized out-patient program for Diabetes Education that serves the Madison County area. Group classes or individual classes are offered as well as a monthly Diabetes Support Group open to the community. The center offers education to newly diagnosed patients with diabetes, those with gestational diabetes, those with complications of the disease, and those with undergoing treatment changes. The center uses the practical steps developed by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. Healthy eating, being active, monitoring, taking medications, problem solving, healthy coping, and reducing risks are areas that are discussed. Role Purpose Provides Diabetes and Nutritional educational services and community resources for inpatients and outpatients. Maintains a case load of patients and promotes program development.