A steady place to start

Living with diabetes can bring a lot of questions. Some days it’s about numbers. Other days it’s about how you’re feeling, what’s changed, or whether something new is worth paying attention to. You don’t have to sort through that alone.

Having a primary care provider you know and trust can make diabetes feel more manageable. Someone who listens, helps you understand what’s going on, and works with you to create a plan that fits your life—right here in our community.

Our community-based primary care team focuses on long-term relationships, not rushed visits or one-size-fits-all plans.

What that looks like for you:

A provider who understands your health history and your daily life
Clear guidance you can use right away
Regular check-ins to catch changes early
Care that feels supportive, not overwhelming

Your primary care provider is your partner in diabetes care

Your primary care provider helps guide every part of your diabetes care—from monitoring A1C and blood sugar to managing medications and watching for changes that could affect your health down the road.

Visits aren’t just about today’s numbers. They’re a chance to talk through symptoms, concerns, and goals so small issues don’t turn into bigger ones.

Support beyond the exam room

Nutrition & lifestyle guidance Diabetes management doesn’t have to be extreme. Our care team helps you make realistic changes around food, movement, sleep, and stress—steps that fit into real life. Learn more about Diabetes Education and whether it may be a helpful next step for you.

Weight and Wellness Clinic (an option for some patients) For some people, weight loss can play a role in improving blood sugar and overall health. Our Weight and Wellness Clinic may be an option as part of your care plan.

This isn’t required, and it isn’t right for everyone. Your provider will help you understand whether it makes sense for you—and what support is available.

Chronic condition care—working together Diabetes often connects with other conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, or high cholesterol. Your care team works together so nothing is missed and your plan stays coordinated.

Care for every stage of diabetes

Newly diagnosed: We’ll take things step by step and answer your questions as they come up.
Living with Type 2 diabetes: We focus on stability, prevention, and helping you feel your best.
Supporting a loved one: We provide education and guidance to help families feel more confident.

Diabetic Eye Exams

Why Annual Eye Exams Matter—Even When Your Vision Feels Fine

By Brett Buckley, OD, Winona Health Eye Care Center

Many people assume eye exams are only necessary when vision becomes blurry or uncomfortable. As an optometrist, I often see patients who are surprised to learn that some of the most serious eye conditions develop quietly—without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.

That’s why regular, comprehensive eye exams are such an important part of overall health care. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes should have routine eye exams to screen for diabetes-related eye disease, even when vision seems normal.

During a comprehensive, dilated eye exam, we don’t just check how well you can see. We evaluate the health of your eyes to look for early signs of disease, including conditions related to diabetes.

Diabetes increases the risk of several eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Diabetic retinopathy, in particular, is one of the leading causes of vision loss among people with diabetes. What makes it especially concerning is that damage to the eyes can occur before any changes in vision are noticeable.

The good news is that early detection works. When diabetes-related eye conditions are identified early, treatment is often more effective, and in many cases, vision loss can be prevented or slowed.

Even if your diabetes is well managed and your vision seems fine, regular eye exams remain an important part of long-term diabetes care. Most insurance plans cover annual eye exams as preventive care, making this one of the simplest steps you can take to protect your vision.

If it’s been a while since your last exam, I encourage you to schedule one. Your future vision is worth it. For more information about the Winona Health Eye Care Center, visit winonahealth.org/eyecare. To schedule an appointment, call: 507.474.4760 or through My Winona Health.