Diabetes Care

Compassionate, Whole-Person Diabetes Management and Care in Chicago 

Living with diabetes can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to manage it alone. Howard Brown Health provides comprehensive diabetes management and care in Chicago designed to help adults understand their condition, manage blood sugar with confidence, and stay connected to care that supports whole-person health. 

We offer affirming, patient-centered diabetes care for adults, with a focus on reducing barriers to care and supporting long-term health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ people and the broader Chicago community. 

Diabetes management at Howard Brown Health includes screening and diagnosis, A1C testing, medication and insulin management, nutrition counseling, mental health support, and coordinated primary care, all delivered in an inclusive, respectful healthcare environment. 

The content below explains: 

• What diabetes is and why management matters 
• Who should seek diabetes care 
• What diabetes services are available in Chicago 
• How to schedule an appointment at Howard Brown Health 

What Is Diabetes Management? 

Diabetes management is ongoing medical care that helps people control blood sugar levels, reduce complications, and support overall health through regular monitoring, medication management, lifestyle guidance, and coordinated care.  

At Howard Brown Health, diabetes management is integrated into primary care and tailored to each patient’s health needs, goals, and daily life. 

Effective diabetes care focuses on: 

• Blood sugar monitoring 
• Preventing complications 
• Supporting physical and mental health 
• Creating sustainable treatment plans 

Schedule a diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 to speak with our team and find the right clinic location in Chicago. 

Understanding Diabetes, Blood Sugar, and Why Care Matters 

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar. It requires ongoing medical care and self-management, including regular monitoring of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. 

Without consistent diabetes care, the condition can increase the risk of: 

• Heart disease 
• Kidney disease or kidney failure 
• Vision loss 
• Nerve damage 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 38 million people in the United States are living with diabetes, and millions more have prediabetes and may not know it. 

What Is Prediabetes? 

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. It is often caused by insulin resistance, when the body does not use insulin effectively and blood sugar levels rise. 

Prediabetes increases the risk of: 

• Type 2 diabetes 
• Heart disease 
• Stroke 
• Other chronic health conditions 

According to the CDC, prediabetes is a serious health condition and 1 in 3 US adults has it. Early screening and care can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Early intervention can help prevent prediabetes from progressing to Type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, even reverse prediabetes through lifestyle changes and medical support. 

If you are concerned about prediabetes or have a family history of diabetes, schedule a prediabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 to speak to our team for support.  

Diabetes Risk Factors and Related Conditions 

Several factors can increase the risk of developing diabetes, including: 

• Family history of diabetes 
• Body weight 
• Age 
• Lifestyle factors 

Diabetes often occurs alongside metabolic syndrome, a group risk factors that includes: 

• Insulin resistance 
• High blood sugar 
• High blood pressure 
• Abnormal cholesterol levels 
• Increased risk for heart disease and stroke 

Understanding your risk factors is an important step in diabetes prevention and long-term management. Addressing these risk factors through healthy eating, regular physical activity, and weight management can help prevent diabetes.  

Howard Brown Health is here to help you with affordable diabetes management support. Schedule a diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 today.  

Who Should Seek Diabetes Care? 

You may benefit from diabetes care if you: 

• Have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, or prediabetes 
• Have a family history of diabetes 
• Have high blood sugar or insulin resistance 
• Are managing metabolic syndrome 
• Want support preventing diabetes or complications 

If you have any of these risk factors or concerns, consult a Howard Brown Health primary care provider for diabetes screening, diagnosis, and ongoing management.  

Howard Brown Health provides diabetes care for adults across Chicago, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Schedule a diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 today.  

Diabetes Care Services in Chicago 

Howard Brown Health provides comprehensive diabetes care focused on prevention, education, and long-term management. Services are integrated within primary care and designed to support whole-person wellbeing. 

Our Diabetes Care Services Include: 

• Diabetes screening and diagnosis 
• Blood glucose and A1C testing (a blood test that measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months) 
• Ongoing management of diabetes and prediabetes 
• Support for managing metabolic syndrome and related conditions, such as diabetic eye examinations. 
• Personalized treatment plans based on your health goals 
• Medication management, including insulin and non-insulin therapies 
• Nutrition guidance, meal plan support, and lifestyle counseling 
• Coordination with primary care, behavioral health, and specialty services 

Our providers work collaboratively with you to create a diabetes care plan that feels realistic, supportive, and sustainable. 

If you are concerned about diabetes or prediabetes, schedule an appointment online or call 773.388.1600. 

Why Choose Howard Brown Health for Diabetes Care? 

Howard Brown Health is a trusted Chicago healthcare provider offering: 

• LGBTQ+ affirming diabetes care 
• Integrated primary and behavioral healthcare 
• Sliding scale fees and insurance support 
• Multiple clinic locations throughout Chicago 
• Experienced providers focused on whole-person health 

Our approach reduces barriers to care and supports patients at every stage of their diabetes journey. 

Inclusive and Affirming Diabetes Care for LGBTQ+ Adults 

Health disparities significantly impact diabetes outcomes. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) people have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes compared with the general population. 

Howard Brown Health provides diabetes care that is: 

• Inclusive and respectful 
• Culturally competent 
• Accessible regardless of ability to pay 

Our care teams are experienced in LGBTQ+ health and create safe environments where patients feel comfortable discussing their health concerns. If you are concerned about diabetes or prediabetes, schedule an appointment online or call 773.388.1600 and speak to our team about support. 

Managing Diabetes Day-to-Day 

Effective diabetes management includes medical care, lifestyle support, and mental health care. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, through balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and weight management, is also essential for managing and preventing diabetes. 

Nutrition and Diabetes 

Healthy eating is a key part of managing blood sugar and supporting long-term health. We encourage patients to eat healthy foods as part of their daily routine to lose excess weight and help prevent and manage diabetes. 

Nutrition strategies may include: 

• Choosing healthy foods such as whole grains, vegetables, berries, nuts, and leafy greens for better blood sugar control 
• Eating fiber-rich foods such as beans and whole grains 
• Limiting foods high in added sugars 
• Reducing processed foods and sugary drinks 
• Staying hydrated 
• Choosing healthy fats 

We work with patients and registered dietitians to create meal plans that fit individual preferences, cultures, and health care goals. 

Fitness and Diabetes 

Regular physical activity can: 

• Lower blood sugar levels 
• Improve insulin sensitivity 
• Support weight management 
• Improve overall health 

Start slow, you can do this, and we’re here to help. Staying active is essential for effective diabetes management, as it helps control blood sugar and reduces the risk of complications. 

The American Diabetes Association recommends these weekly exercise targets: 

• At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, or 
• 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week 

Activities may include walking, cycling, swimming, or strength training. Patients are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine. 

Mental Health and Diabetes 

Living with diabetes can affect mental and emotional wellbeing. People managing diabetes may experience: 

• Depression 
• Anxiety 
• Chronic stress 

Howard Brown Health integrates mental health support into diabetes care by: 

• Coordinating behavioral health services 
• Connecting patients to peer support and assistance programs 
• Addressing emotional wellbeing as part of whole-person care 

Mental health support can improve diabetes outcomes and quality of life. 

Health Insurance Options and Sliding Scale Fees 

Navigating insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when managing a chronic condition. Our team helps patients understand coverage options and access affordable care. When it comes to diabetes management, it’s important to understand your insurance coverage, out-of-pocket cost, and plan formulary, as these factors determine which medications and supplies are covered and what you may pay. 

Insurance Support Includes: 

• Assistance reviewing insurance plans and formularies 
• Support with Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D for eligible patients 
• Guidance on state and local assistance programs 

Sliding Scale Fees 

Howard Brown Health offers discounted services to eligible uninsured patients. Sliding scale fees are based on: 

• Gross yearly household income 
• Household size 

We welcome patients regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Schedule a diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 to speak to our team for support.  

Community Support and Diabetes Education 

Community support plays an important role in diabetes management. Support networks can help patients: 

• Build practical diabetes skills 
• Stay motivated 
• Reduce isolation 

Resources may include: 

• Diabetes education programs 
• Peer and support groups 
• Medication and supply savings programs 
• Help to find resources for diabetes management, including patient assistance programs that offer free or reduced-cost insulin and medications for those who qualify 

Howard Brown Health can connect patients to community-based resources that support long-term wellness. Learn more at our Support Groups webpage or send an email to diabetessupport@howardbrown.org to get started. 

Diabetes Care Locations in Chicago 

Howard Brown Health provides diabetes care at multiple clinic locations throughout Chicago, with: 

• Extended hours 
• Weekend appointments 
• Care close to home, work, or school 

Visit our locations page to find a clinic near you. 

How to Schedule a Diabetes Care Appointment 

Managing diabetes is easier with a trusted healthcare team by your side. Whether you are newly diagnosed, managing prediabetes, or seeking ongoing diabetes care in Chicago, Howard Brown Health is here to support you.  

Schedule a diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 to speak with our team and find the right clinic location in Chicago. 

Diabetes Prevention and Care FAQs 

What types of diabetes do you treat?  

At Howard Brown Health, we provide care for adults living with Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes, as well as diabetes prevention and long-term management. 

Do I need a referral for diabetes care? 

In most cases, no referral is needed. 

Is diabetes care coordinated with your primary care healthcare provider? 

Yes. Diabetes care is fully integrated with primary care and other services. Schedule a diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 to speak with our health care team and find the right clinic location near you in Chicago. 

Do you offer support with medications and insulin? 

Yes. Howard Brown Health providers support medication and insulin management and help identify cost-saving resources. 

What insurance options are available? 

We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and many private insurance plans. Individuals with end stage renal disease may qualify for Medicare regardless of age. A list of insurance plans we accept are here. If your insurance plan is not on the list, please call us at 773.388.1600 for further assistance. We’re here to help. 

Do you offer sliding scale fees? 

Yes. Sliding scale fees are available based on income and household size. Learn more here. 

What healthy lifestyle changes help with diabetes management or prevention? 

Healthy eating, regular physical activity, and losing excess weight, especially around the waist, can significantly improve diabetes management and prevention. 

How do I schedule an appointment? 

Schedule a prediabetes or diabetes care appointment online or call 773.388.1600 to speak with our health care team and find the right clinic location near you in Chicago.