Your Healthcare Team

Although the day-to-day management of your diabetes is very much up to you, controlling diabetes is always a team effort. So you need on-going professional help — such as visits to your doctor and lab tests — to make sure that your treatment plan stays on track. That way, if problems do start, they will be found early. Don't forget that if you have a question or a problem, your healthcare team members are always there to help you.

Your healthcare team includes:

• your doctor and office staff
• diabetes educators, such as a nurse, dietitian, or other professional
• pharmacist
• other professionals such as an eye doctor, dentist, podiatrist (foot doctor), or an exercise specialist, depending on your needs
• family, friends, and supporters

Learn needed information and skills

This website is a good start in learning what you need to know. Many hospitals and clinics have diabetes education programs where you can learn more. They teach important skills like testing your blood sugar, planning your meals, and how to take your medication.