Title: 1) RN CDCES Team Coordinator; 2) Diabetes Prevention Coordinator
Company: 1) Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital; 2) Sentara Hampton Roads
Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States
Susan De Abate, RN CDCES team coordinator and diabetes prevention coordinator for Sentrara Hampton Roads with Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Nurses for dedication, achievements, and leadership in health care.
Ms. De Abate’s educational journey encompasses a pursuit of a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Her prior achievements include a post-master’s certificate in family nurse practitioner from Indiana State University in 2012, a Master of Science in nursing for education from the University of Phoenix in 2009, and a Bachelor of Science in nursing, also from the University of Phoenix, in 2004. Ms. De Abate has held the position of RN CDCES team coordinator and diabetes and diabetes prevention coordinator for Sentara Hampton Roads at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital since 2015. Prior roles include serving as an RN diabetes educator at Sentara Healthcare from 2008 to 2015, contributing to Maryview Nursing Care Center within the Bon Secours Health System from 2004 to 2008, and making significant contributions to Comfort Care Home Health Services at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center from 1992 to 2004.
Civic engagement is a cornerstone of Ms. De Abate’s professional life. This is highlighted by her role as the coordinating body chair for the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES) and her previous position as chair of the Local Chapter of ADCES. She holds memberships and chairs the Coordinating Body of Virginia within the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists and is an active participant in the Virginia Diabetes Council. Acknowledging her dedication and expertise, Ms. De Abate received an Ace Award for her outstanding contributions to her field. Her success is attributed to her relatability, rooted in personal experiences with diabetes within her family. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with individuals on a personal level to effectively convey her passion for diabetes education.
Ms. De Abate’s entry into the nursing profession was fueled by a desire to advocate for her patients and effect change from within the system. Throughout her career, her ability to view issues from a broader perspective and devise innovative solutions has earned her numerous accolades. With a visionary outlook, she continues to develop new programs and plans to enhance diabetes management. Looking ahead, Ms. De Abate envisions assisting smaller organizations in developing glycemic programs and leveraging technology to handle larger populations.
In the coming years, she aims to contribute to healthcare consulting, share her expertise through writing, and address staffing challenges in diabetes education. Ms. De Abate advises aspiring professionals to choose a career path aligned with their passion. A highlight of her distinguished career was her role in initiating the Diabetes Prevention Program and collaborating with the Virginia Department of Health to enhance the program’s effectiveness. Currently, midway through her doctorate, Ms. De Abate remains committed to advancing healthcare practices in diabetes prevention and education.
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