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Because diabetes touches on so many aspects of a person's life, there are many health care specialties available to support people with diabetes. Don't forget that you are a key member of this team. Your team of health professionals might also include:
Family Doctor – Likely your main diabetes care provider, your family doctor will play an important ongoing role in diagnosing, monitoring, and helping you manage your diabetes. He or she may refer you to a diabetes care clinic or other specialists as necessary.
Endocrinologist – This type of doctor focuses on diseases of the endocrine system, which includes the pancreas, particularly the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes. Your family doctor may refer you to an endocrinologist for specialized care.
Dietitian (Nutritionist) – This person will help you design a meal plan that will both fit your lifestyle and preferences and help you maintain good blood sugar control.
Diabetes Educator – This professional, often a registered nurse or dietitian, has received special training in teaching people with diabetes how to provide the best self-care, including glucose self-monitoring, foot care, and so on. You may work with him or her one-on-one or be taught in a classroom setting.
Walk-in Clinics – A family doctor is the best option for helping you manage a chronic disease such as diabetes. However, if you do not have a family physician, walk-in medical clinics will be an important part of your diabetes care. You should be extra careful about keeping detailed personal records of your own health to ensure that the available doctor has the information he or she needs to help make good treatment decisions for you.
Occupational Health Nurse or Doctor – Some workplaces offer occupational health specialists, who can advise you or provide you with additional resources to help manage your diabetes and work.
Pharmacist – Your pharmacist may become an important part of your diabetes care team, especially if you take diabetes medications. Because pharmacists are experts in understanding how various medications work together, you should get all your prescriptions from the same pharmacy - and be sure to tell your pharmacist about any over-the-counter or herbal remedies you may be taking. Your pharmacist is also an excellent resource for your medication, blood sugar self-monitoring and general diabetes questions.
Psychologist/Psychiatrist/Social Worker – Mental health professionals can help with the personal and emotional aspects of living with diabetes. Stress can have major effects on your blood sugar levels as well, so learning how to better manage stress may also help you manage your diabetes.
Cardiologist – Most people with diabetes will eventually develop heart-related problems. A heart specialist may be able to help you prevent or manage heart disease.
Nephrologist – Because diabetes is the major cause of kidney disease, a kidney specialist may be a part of your diabetes care team.
Ophthalmologist /Optometrist – Regular eye care is critical for people with diabetes because they are prone to eye diseases that can lead to blindness.
Podiatrist /Chiropodist/Foot Care Nurses - These professionals specialize in the care of the feet and lower legs. Because diabetes can make you prone to poor blood flow and nerve damage, foot care to prevent ulcers and amputations is very important.
Alternative Therapies – Some people use alternative or complementary therapies – such as acupuncture, herbal medicines, or biofeedback – to help manage their diabetes or its complications. Some alternative therapies may have serious side-effects. To avoid potential problems, make sure to educate yourself, and ensure your primary care provider knows about all therapies, medicines, or supplements you are currently taking or considering for your diabetes.
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