Meet the Staff: Raul Millan, RN

Raul Millan
Raul Millan

Raul Millan, RN, has been with Sharp Rees-Stealy since 1987 and recently started working with the Diabetes Disease Management Program. He received his bachelor's of science in nursing from the Chamberlain College of Nursing.

How did you choose to work in the field of disease management? 
My years working at Sharp HealthCare have allowed me to see the need to improve the health of people who live with a chronic illness. I particularly became interested in diabetes disease management when a close family member was diagnosed with diabetes.

What do you do in your role at Sharp Rees-Stealy Disease Management?
My role as diabetes disease manager at Sharp Rees-Stealy is multifaceted. I meet with patients during their clinic visit to assess their diabetes knowledge and refer them to the appropriate resources, mainly diabetes education. I follow up with the patients telephonically to make sure their diabetes health questions are answered, personal diabetes goals are being met and new ones are developed. 

How do you help your patients succeed in managing their chronic disease? 
By providing patients with the necessary personal support, information and resources. I call them periodically to find out how they are doing at managing their diabetes and praise them for every step they take to self-manage their diabetes no matter how big or small.  

What is the key to self-managing a chronic disease? 
Help patients understand the importance of good health, counseling and educating the patient of the importance of keeping optimum glucose control to prevent complications. 

How do you stay healthy?
I keep myself healthy through exercise. I enjoy community events such as mud runs and marathons; I join as many as I can. I make sure my diet contains whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Taking care of mental health is also important to me; I love being outdoors spending time with my friends and family and enjoying relaxing activities while staying in touch with nature.

For More Information
To learn more or to speak with someone to determine if you're eligible to participate in a Sharp Rees-Stealy disease management program, please call 619-446-1571, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.