Since diabetes affects many different areas of the body, it’s important to create a team of healthcare professionals to help you address every part of the disease. The number and type of providers on your healthcare team depend upon the state of your health and your medical requirements. You may need to include the following healthcare professionals.
Primary Care Provider: This could be the family practice physician you see when you get sick and/or an endocrinologist, a doctor with special training in diseases such as diabetes. If you do not see an endocrinologist, find a primary care provider who has experience treating people with diabetes.
Diabetes Educator: This registered nurse, registered dietitian or pharmacist has special training in caring for those with diabetes. This type of expert can address many of your diabetes concerns and teach you how to take insulin, check blood glucose levels, handle sick days and create health goals. Diabetes educators usually work in doctors’ offices, hospitals and pharmacies.
Registered Dietician: This nationally certified member of your healthcare team can help you create a balanced meal plan that works with your lifestyle. Your dietitian might help you create special goals such as reading food labels, losing weight and balancing food with medications and activity.
Eye Doctor: An ophthalmologist or an optometrist will check for any changes in your eyes. Since diabetes can affect the blood vessels in the eyes, the American Diabetes Association recommends an annual visit.
Mental Health Professional: Experts such as social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists and marriage and family therapists help you deal with the personal and emotional side of living with diabetes.
Podiatrist: Since diabetes causes poor blood circulation and nerve disease in the extremities, seeing a foot doctor at least once a year is a must. Treating corns, calluses and foot sores may prevent serious problems.
Pharmacist: These highly trained professionals understand medicines and interactions. You should find a pharmacy you like and use it regularly so your pharmacist can keep an accurate, up-to-date profile of your medical history, allergies and medications.
Dentist: Did you know people with diabetes are at greater risk for gum disease? Make sure you schedule an appointment with a dentist — who knows you have diabetes — every six months.
Exercise Physiologist: A professional trained in exercise science and safe conditioning techniques can help create a tailor-made exercise plan. Speak with your primary care provider before starting a plan.
You: The most important member of your healthcare team is you! Since diabetes is a 24/7/365 disease, your actions every day help determine your overall health. Your healthcare team depends on you to talk to them honestly and to tell them how you feel.
Adapted from Take Charge! Living With, Preventing & Stopping Diabetes, CW Publishing Group, November 2012.