(3/25/11) – Anita Longan of the McLeod Diabetes Center was named Certified Diabetes Educator of the Year by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. She was presented with the award on Saturday, March 12 at the 9th Annual Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Stroke Winter Symposium in Myrtle Beach.

The award recognizes a certified diabetes educator who has made a special contribution to diabetes education through dedication and innovation in the daily practice of patient care. Longan is a registered dietician and CDE at McLeod Diabetes center where she has worked since its opening in 1999. "Anita is a valued employee and truly deserves recognition for her dedication and commitment to improving the health of the diabetes population in the Pee Dee Region of our State," says Marilyn Henderson, Coordinator of the McLeod Diabetes Center. "She is a true diabetes champion and her clients often tell us how much they enjoy their visits with her," Henderson notes.

About the McLeod Diabetes Center

The McLeod Diabetes Center has been recognized by the American Diabetes Association and the Diabetes Initiative of South Carolina for meeting national and state standards of diabetes education. It is also the only accredited center in the Pee Dee Region recognized by the American Association of Diabetes Educators.

The Diabetes Center offers an extensive range of patient services including outpatient diabetes self-management education, individual and group education classes, free support groups, and coordination with Women’s Health Services. The staff includes four Certified Diabetes Educators and one who is Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management.

For more information about the McLeod Diabetes Center, call (843) 777-6000.