Diabetes Education

Columbia County Health System
Ruth Yutzy, RN, BSN

Call or Text: 509-540-0859

Email: Ruth.Yutzy@cchd-wa.org

Ruth is a certified diabetes care and education specialist and registered nurse. Ruth received her Associate's Degree in Nursing at Walla Walla Community College in 2018 and in 2020 her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing with WSU.  She has worked with Columbia County Health System in Acute Care, Emergency and Long Term Care. Ruth has lived in Dayton for 7 years and is an active member of the community with school age children and a hobby farm outside Dayton.

"I became interested in diabetes in nursing school and saw a need in our community for diabetes services that I feel privileged to fill.  I believe in providing patient centered care. No shame or blame tactics here; I will meet you where you are and we will work together to meet your goals. The exciting thing about working with diabetes management is how lifestyle changes and knowledge can make a big difference in outcomes.  I will be meeting with people one-on-one and collaborating with clinic providers to assist them with tools and resources to best self- manage their diabetes. “

How we can help you

Diabetes is a complex disease, and it requires daily self-management. Making healthy food choices, staying physically active, monitoring your blood sugar and taking medications as prescribed. It's also important to speak regularly with your diabetes care team to problem solve, reduce risks for complications and cope with lifestyle changes.

Successful self-management will help you feel better and reduce chances of developing complications such as heart disease, dental disease, eye disorders, kidney disease, nerve damage or more.

As a diabetes care and education specialist Ruth can help you learn how to take care of yourself — guide you through your treatment and help you with any fears, issues and problems you encounter along the way.

At Columbia County Health System, we are committed to preventative care and helping people with diabetes gain the right tools to manage their diabetes, and achieve the best health outcomes possible.

Times to seek diabetes education:

-         At diagnosis

  • This can be scary and overwhelming and diabetes education can equip individuals with the knowledge, support and tools to navigate this complex disease.

-         When not meeting goals

  • This is a great time to review what a person is currently doing to manage their diabetes, and how these strategies are working.  Then to develop a new personalized plan that will allow the person with diabetes to meet their goals and achieve the best possible outcomes.

-         New to Insulin?

  • Diabetes Education can train people how to use insulin, calculate doses, count carbohydrates and about insulin safety.

-         When complications arise

  • Diabetes education can help an individual understand the disease process, connect with appropriate resources and minimize the progression of these complications.

-         During Life transitions

  • This can be a challenging time and it is easy to get off track. Diabetes Education can help people connect with local resources, communicate with providers and provide encouragement and support.    

Foot Care Clinic

Call or Text: 509-540-8122

👣 Foot Care Clinic

Day: Thursday only
Eligibility: Ages 60+

📍 Location
535 Cameron Street, Dayton

🗓️ Appointments
Approximately every 10 weeks

💲 Cost
No charge for services
Donations welcome to help cover wages and supplies not fully funded by the state grant

🩺 Care Provided By
Registered Nurses (RNs)

Additional Resources

  • American Diabetes Association – Tools & Resources
    Comprehensive support for people with diabetes and caregivers — including risk tests, education programs, affordability help, and guides. American Diabetes Association Tools & Resources (ADA)

  • CDC – Diabetes (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
    Official government resource with info on prediabetes, type 2 diabetes prevention, healthy living tips, and managing complications. CDC Diabetes Resource Page

  • American Heart Association – Diabetes Tools & Resources
    Lifestyle and self-management tools tailored for people with diabetes, including heart-healthy guidance. AHA Diabetes Tools & Resources

  • Diabetes Foundation – Online Resources
    Free searchable resources, financial help info, medication access support, and community tools for daily diabetes management. Diabetes Foundation Online Resources

Success Story

"I'm Matt Guy, 54 years old, living with diabetes for the past 7-8 years. Originally from Arkansas, now in Dayton for 2 years due to my wife's job in Walla Walla. I chose Dayton's health system for its proximity.

Back in Arkansas, I was diagnosed with diabetes and managed it with metformin and Trulicity. Worked hard to lose weight and get off the meds. Family history includes a diabetic father and brother.

My blood sugars soared recently, hitting levels above 600 and an HbA1c of 12%. Dr. Biggs helped, but Ruth Yutzy, our diabetic education nurse, made a real difference.

The personalized care at CCHS is what stands out for me. The continuous glucose monitor has been a game-changer. I feel more mindful of what I eat.

With CCHS, my blood sugars are now stable between 100s-150s. I feel physically better and have more energy. Your people have truly helped me on this journey."