Janice Baker

My passion for diabetes care runs deep, shaped by personal experiences with my family. My father and grandparents were all diagnosed with diabetes in their mid-40s, and I witnessed firsthand the severe complications that impacted their lives. This, along with my professional experiences, has fueled my dedication to this field.

I’ve been in practice for 42 years, working as a CDCES, RDN, CNSC, and BCADM. My journey began in 1982 during a post-graduate internship at a camp for children with diabetes, long before the advent of glucose meters, CGMs, pumps, and newer medications. Since then, I’ve worked in acute care, home health, and nutrition support, primarily with adults living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as those struggling with eating disorders.

My approach to care is rooted in the belief that people want to be heard, not fixed. I understand that diabetes is not just about numbers and medications; the emotional and psychological aspects are equally important. In my work, particularly in the eating disorder treatment setting, I prioritize helping patients develop a healthy relationship with food and body image, acknowledging the pressures of culture, trauma, and societal ideals.