Diabetes Program | Kinwell Health

A growing field of research has demonstrated that lifestyle changes can be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. Kinwell now offers the LEADR program (Lifestyle Empowerment Approach for Diabetes Remission) to help patients manage diabetes and possibly place it in remission. Designed by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the program focuses on adopting a whole food/high fiber way of eating, more movement each week, restorative sleep, and managing stress.

Tuesdays, January 20 – April 7, 6:30 – 8:00 am

Kinwell is one of the first primary care networks in the country to offer this three-month program. A group of patients will meet online every week over the course of three months. Each patient will receive a continuous glucose monitor and the readings will be reviewed by a clinician to make the connection between lifestyle habits—eating, activity, and sleep—and blood sugar levels.

These shared medical appointments will include diabetes education, tips, exercises, discussion, inspiration, and support. The goal is to adopt healthier lifestyle habits resulting in more control of your condition and, hopefully, less insulin and expensive medication. Each patient will receive a digital workbook and participate in lifestyle-building exercises designed to help them stay on track to reach their personal health goals.

Dr. Kathleen Tonti-Horne and health coach Heidi Beer will encourage patients to feel better in their bodies through lifestyle changes. This will be a safe space for sharing experiences and ideas, and drawing strength from others with the same goals and challenges.

Who can attend?

This course is open to patients 18 and older, who have established primary care with a Kinwell clinician. Patients must be located in Washington state to attend these virtual appointments.

These classes are group medical appointments. Co-pays and fees will apply based on your medical plan. To learn more about the costs involved and to register, call (206) 360-9298 or fill out the form below and a member of our team will reach out to you.

^"With virtual care, we can treat people all over Washington. That allows us to take care of so many more people. And group appointments remove any feelings of isolation a patient might have by connecting them with others facing similar health challenges. These support networks help empower patients and allow them to live their best lives.^"

Kathleen Tonti-Horne, MD

Dr. Kathleen Tonti-Horne earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Dominican College of San Rafael and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of California, Irvine. She completed her residency in Family Practice at the Eau Claire Family Medicine Clinic at the University of Wisconsin. She is certified by the American Board of Family Practice and has over thirty years of experience practicing medicine in California,Wisconsin, and Washington.

Dr. Tonti-Horne served as the medical director of Monterey County Jail where she was able to help improve the health of inmates struggling with addiction. Before joining Kinwell, she was the medical director at the VAMC community-based outpatient clinic in Silverdale. She led her outpatient clinical team and was able to advocate for veterans by helping to establish the veteran’s advisory board.

Dr. Kathleen Tonti-Horne joined Kinwell in July of 2022 and has been instrumental in helping establish processes for operational improvement for both patients and Kinwell staff. She is particularly supportive of virtual care and group appointments that leverage the benefits of mutual support.

Heidi Beer

Heidi Beer is a nationally board-certified Lifestyle Medicine health and wellness coach and has worked in the field for over 30 years. Her degree is in exercise science, where she holds a passion for ensuring exercise is beneficial and fun. She has an extensive background as a specialist in behavior change, fitness, diabetes, and nutrition. She has been a multi-sport coach along with enjoying participating in duathlons, triathlons, and winter activities. As a Health and Wellness Coach, Heidi can offer support, empathy, and accountability in the areas you want to improve on.