According to the CDC, chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. In efforts to bring additional resources to the Barton County community to combat these diseases, Clara Barton Medical Center is pleased to welcome Olinda Harbaugh, MPH, RD, LDN, CDCES, CPHQ to their team of medical professionals, specializing in Nutritional Services and Diabetes Education.
Originally from Johnson, KS, Harbaugh attended Kansas State University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics. After attaining her undergrad, she went on to earn a Master of Public Health through Wichita State University/University of Kansas.
Harbaugh has two grown children, one in Ohio and one in Iowa, and 10 grandchildren. She lives on the farm with several animals. In her spare time, she enjoys sewing, reading, collecting antique glass, cooking/doing cooking shows, using home-grown foods and herbs, and finding opportunities for health care projects.
“Nutritional Services and Diabetes Education often go hand-in-hand and I am excited to be offering these services at Clara Barton,” said Harbaugh. “Meeting people in the community and understanding their health priorities is something I truly enjoy and making new friends is an added bonus.”
As a Registered Dietitian, Harbaugh provides both inpatient and outpatient nutrition services designed to help patients reach their optimal health. She uses evidence-based nutrition care to treat acute and chronic illnesses and promote nutritional health for adults and children. An individualized nutrition assessment is performed for each patient to create a plan specific to their needs, whether it is used to assist with special dietary requirements or to simply learn how to eat healthier.
Patients interested in managing a chronic disease such as diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, etc., those that are confused about diet trends, or those who need that extra help to be held accountable for their goals are all encouraged to make an appointment with Harbaugh.
Harbaugh additionally provides Diabetes Education, teaching patients how to self-manage their diabetes and improve their quality of life using disease management strategies. This program is designed to assist patients by developing an individualized wellness plan to help achieve diabetes-related goals. It’s imperative that those living with diabetes have the tools needed to reduce risks and complications and the skills needed to problem-solve and cope in a healthy manner.
Patients with diabetes that can benefit from the Diabetes Education Program are those that are newly diagnosed, have uncontrolled diabetes, have never had diabetes education, or have gone several years since consulting with a Diabetes Educator. Family members are encouraged to attend so they can learn about the disease and what actions need to be taken if a life-threatening diabetic emergency arises.
“We are excited Olinda has joined the Clara Barton healthcare team as she brings a wealth of knowledge and ideas that will benefit our patients and community,” said Amanda Hoffman, Clara Barton Medical Center COO/Director of Pharmacy. “With her, our organization can now offer these much-needed services that are difficult to find in Barton County and help patients not only manage but take control of their health.”
Harbaugh is accepting new patients at Clara Barton Medical Center in Hoisington. A provider referral is needed for insurance purposes, or patients may self-pay. Talk with your provider for a referral and additional information on how these services could benefit you, or self-pay patients can call Clara Barton at 620-653-2114 to schedule an appointment.
