Keeping diabetes in check, be it type 1 or type 2, is a lot of work.
A well-chosen care team can help patients track of their diets, exercise and medications ““ all key components in managing diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association recommends these core members be included on your care team:
- A primary care physician experienced in treating diabetes. Your primary care doctor can also refer you to other specially-trained health professionals who will make up your care team.
- A certified diabetes educator (CDE), or specially trained nurse, doctor, podiatrist, pharmacist or other providers. They will teach you the ins and outs of managing your diabetes from testing your blood sugar to the best way to time your food intake, exercise and medication.
- A registered dietitian. He or she will help you learn how to plan meals, count calories and carbs and tailor your diet to meet your health goals, including weight loss and lower blood pressure or cholesterol. Your dietitian might also be your certified diabetes educator.
- A diabetes nurse educator. Look for someone who has undergone special training to help you learn to take your medications, understand what diabetes is and how it affects your health, how to take insulin and your other medications, how to recognize low or high glucose levels, how to check your blood sugar and track your diabetes and other day-to-day needs. The nurse might also be your certified diabetes educator.
- A podiatrist, or doctor specially trained in foot care. Diabetes affects blood circulation, and poor circulation can lead to infections and foot injuries, which, in turn, can lead to amputations. Regular podiatrist visits minimize the risk of these injuries.
- A pharmacist. Your pharmacist can educate you on how medications work and interact, as well as help you identify and manage side effects.
Every patient has different needs. Talk to your care team members to see if your team should include other professionals, such as a fitness consultant, mental health provider or social worker.
