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Research has found that people with diabetes who
receive coordinated care from a diabetes management team tend to live a better,
healthier life.
Benefits of a medical team dedicated to helping you gain diabetes control include:
- Shorter hospital stays
- Reduced rate of hospital readmission
- More effective control of blood glucose levels
- Fewer long-term risks of Diabetes Complications leading to blindness, kidney failure, or nerve damage
Diabetes Control: Building Your Team
Who should be on your diabetes management team? Here is a list of some of the most important professionals who can teach you how to give yourself the best diabetes care. And keep in mind that the most important member of the team is you. If you are not completely involved in your own care by following doctors' orders and making lifestyle changes, such as diet and Exercise then you are less likely to receive the full benefit of diabetes treatment.
Primary care physician. Your main doctor is the point person for your diabetes care, the key team member who you will see for general health check-ups and when you become ill. A primary care physician should be able to aid your day-to-day diabetes control efforts.
Endocrinologist. This specialist has received training and education in treating diabetes and other diseases of the endocrine system (the body’s endocrine system oversees regulation of hormones, one of which is insulin). Many people manage their diabetes without ever having to see an endocrinologist. But if you are having difficulty getting blood sugar levels under control or are beginning to show the signs of serious diabetes complications, an endocrinologist will be a vital team member.
Diabetes educator or diabetes nurse practitioner. This person usually is a registered nurse (RN) who is available to answer your most basic questions about diabetes management. He or she can guide you through the day-to-day issues that crop up in living with diabetes and teach you tips to better control your diabetes.
Dietitian. A registered dietitian (RD) or a certified diabetes educator (CDE) can plan a healthy diet that will meet you meet your nutritional needs while helping to control blood sugar levels and teach you how the foods you eat affect your body.
Exercise physiologist. Exercise is a crucial aspect of diabetes control. It keeps you in better physical health and your blood glucose levels steady. While a trainer at a gym can create a workout routine for you, an exercise physiologist has been trained in the science of exercise and can craft a plan to fit your particular lifestyle and level of health.
Ophthalmologist. Your eye health can be damaged as a result of high blood sugar levels. Regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist will uncover any changes in your vision that could be a sign of impending trouble.
Podiatrist. Diabetes can cause poor blood flow and loss of sensation in the extremities, particularly in your feet. Sores that develop can, without prompt treatment, become serious medical problems that might lead to amputation. A skilled podiatrist can help keep track of your foot health and prevent such complications.
Dentist. Diabetes can play havoc with dental health. Low blood flow and excess blood sugar can lead to gum disease. Regular check-ups with a dentist can prevent this particular diabetes complication.
While you can add these experts to your team individually as problems occur, the best outcomes occur when all members of your diabetes management team are communicating with each other to coordinate your treatment. For the best diabetes control, ask your doctor or endocrinologist about the right way to form your team.
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