CONTACT: Gail McBride-Vest (404) 265-4121

ATLANTA MEDICAL CENTER OPENS

DIABETES AND METABOLIC CENTER

Atlanta, April 3, 2001 -- Atlanta Medical Center has opened an outpatient Diabetes and Metabolic Center aimed at providing comprehensive treatment for patients with diabetes, a group of diseases resulting from a defective amount of insulin secretion or insulin action.

More than 15 million people, almost six percent of the population, are affected with diabetes, and each year another 800,000 cases will be diagnosed. A variety of life-threatening complications can occur including blindness, kidney disease, nerve disorders, amputation and heart disease and stroke. In 1997, an estimated $98 billion was spent on direct medical and treatment costs and indirect costs attributed to disability and mortality.

"Our multidisciplinary approach to treatment will include a wide range of specialists," said Harry Delcher, M.D. an endocrinologist and co-medical director of the Center.

"In addition, since Atlanta Medical Center is a teaching hospital, our patients have the benefit of being treated by physicians who also are academicians. We're proud to say that we are one of few comprehensive diabetes programs that have been certified by the American Diabetes Association."

All Diabetes and Metabolic Center physicians are board-certified in their specialties and include: endocrinologists, dermatologists, internists, podiatrists, rheumatologists and specialists in wound care. Atlanta Medical Center participates in a variety of drug trials, and patients may have the opportunity to experience some of the newest treatment protocols.

Unfortunately, the incidence of diabetes is far greater among African Americans and Hispanics. About 2.3 million people or nearly 11 percent of African Americans are affected. In addition, 1.2 million or 10.6 percent of Mexican American have diabetes. Approximately 24 percent of Mexican Americans in the United States and 26 percent of those in Puerto Rico are afflicted.

"As an urban hospital, we see a greater number of diabetes cases and felt obligated to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment. We will provide classes, exercise options through the Atlanta Medical Center Wellness Center and the services of nutritionists," said Dr. Delcher.

Proper diet and exercise can contribute to reduced incidence as well as improved management of the disease. For information about the Diabetes and Metabolic Center or to enroll in a treatment program, call (404) 265- DOCS (3627).

Since its founding in 1901, Atlanta Medical Center has been serving the medical needs of the community and the region for 100 years. The 467-bed Medical Center offers cardiology, medical/surgical, neonatal, oncology, orthopaedic, rehabilitation and emergency services. The level II Trauma Center is supported by aeromedical services providing immediate transportation to critical patients throughout the state. Atlanta Medical Center is owned by Tenet Healthcare Corporation, a nationwide provider of healthcare services that operates 111 acute care hospitals and related businesses in 17 states.