Like many people, Helen was struggling with her diabetes management. Then her doctor invited her to attend a "group appointment" with him, a diabetes educator (DE) and other patients. In six months Helen improved her A1C, increased her physical activity—and even learned to make healthier food choices.

You may also find that a "team approach" is just what you need to make significant improvements. A 2003 study in "The Journal of General Internal Medicine" shows that improved self-care appears to be related to doctor communications. Patients who got diabetes-specific information (diet, exercise, foot care and medication) and general health advice from their doctors reported better daily self-care. For example, regular foot checks were performed by 91 percent of patients whose doctors communicated with them, vs. 63 percent for those who had poor communication. Adherence to medication, diet and exercise were also better for those who had good physician communication.

There are many caring and highly trained health care professionals to help you reach your diabetes management goals—if you know how to take advantage of their services.

Assembling your dream team
First, remember that you are the most important person on your health care team. More than 90 percent of diabetes-related care is self-care—not from professionals—so you must actively participate with your team to plan and implement your care.

Your role not only involves communicating with individual team members but helping coordinate team members to ensure they are in alignment.

Primary care physician
A primary care physician (PCP) is essential to oversee your care. Your PCP may have diagnosed your diabetes and will likely coordinate care, especially for Type 2s. Types 1s are more likely to see an endocrinologist, who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the endocrine glands, which regulate hormones. They often treat diabetes and thyroid disorders. They may further specialize in treating specific age groups, such as with pediatric endocrinologists, who treat only children.

A diabetologist is a physician, often an internist, whose practice concentrates on diabetes care. In addition to regulating medication dosage and timing, a diabetologist watches for potential complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy or peripheral neuropathy.

Your family doctor or internist, an endocrinologist or a diabetologist may all be suitable to coordinate your care. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends visiting your PCP 2-4 times per year. When choosing a PCP, consider:

• Do they have expertise in diabetes and experience coordinating care?
  
• Do you feel comfortable talking with them?
  
• Do they use a team approach?
  
• Are they easily accessible?
  
• Are they part of your insurance plan or do they require a referral?

Your doctor is only the beginning
Preventing and treating diabetes and its complications may involve medical specialists—such as an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) for annual dilated eye exams, a podiatrist (foot doctor) for annual foot exams, and a dentist for biannual exams. You might also see specialists such as cardiologists (heart), dermatologists (skin) or gastroenterologists (digestive system).

Depending on your needs and interests, there are a number of non-physician professionals who can help you reach your goals, such as learning to count carbohydrates, exercise safely or lose weight. They can also help you monitor potential medication interactions.

Certified diabetes educator
Ideally, in addition to your physician, you'll see a certified diabetes educator (CDE), who will teach you the practical techniques of dealing with diabetes, including how to take your insulin or other medicines, how to measure your blood glucose levels, and much more. Your doctor may recommend an educator or you can call the American Association of Diabetes Educators at 800 832-6874. The ADA recommends an annual update with a diabetes educator.

Registered dietitian
Your CDE can answer questions about diet, but a registered dietitian (RD) is an expert in food and nutrition and can help you create and stick to a healthy eating plan. (Often you can find an RD who is certified as a DE, which means they have experience and expertise working with people with diabetes.) Ask your doctor for the name of a dietitian. Or you can call the American Dietetic Association at 800 366-1655.

Exercise physiologist
If you're having trouble getting motivated or fitting exercise into your diabetes care, an exercise physiologist can help you develop and stick with a fitness plan. They can also help you exercise safely. This is typically a person with a degree in exercise physiology or someone certified by the American Society of Exercise Physiologists. They work in a variety of settings, including rehabilitation clinics, hospitals, sport and athletic programs, and health and fitness facilities.

Pharmacist
Your pharmacist can help you learn more about diabetes medicines and supplies. A pharmacist can help you choose the diabetes supplies—like your glucose meter, syringes and lancet (finger-sticking device)—that are right for you. Some pharmacists specialize in diabetes care. Ask about the specific services your pharmacist can offer you.

Mental health professionals
Diabetes can be hard for you and your family to deal with. A counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist or social worker can help you and your family cope better with the emotions and change that diabetes can bring.

Julie Steele, MPH, is staff writer for OneTouchGold.com.

Want to read hundreds more FREE articles like this? Join today!