Once a diagnosis of diabetes is made, it is very important to look for a physician who is knowledgeable about the disease and its complications. As with other complex medical problems, even the best general practitioner or primary-care physician may not be aware of all of the concerns that need to be addressed in diabetes. In many medical centers, diabetes care is provided by a specially trained treatment team, which generally consists of the following professionals:
- Mental health specialist – someone who can help you and your family deal with the emotional and social impact of a chronic condition such as diabetes.
- Exercise physiologist – a person trained to help people with diabetes devise an effective exercise program.
- Registered dietitian – a professional who is trained in the nutritional needs and planning of meals for people with diabetes. Many dietitians who work with diabetes patients are also C. D. E. s.
- Nurse educator – a nurse who is trained in the management of diabetes and is skilled in teaching procedures of diabetes care. Frequently this person is a C.D.E(Certified Diabetes Educator).
- Diabetologist – a physician who is an expert in treating diabetes, particularly diabetes that is treated with insulin. The physician may also be a board-certified endocrinologist: (hormone specialist).
- Other professionals – podiatrists (foot doctors) and ophthalmologists (eye doctors).
In addition to providing expert medical care, such a team can give you insights on a host of issues that relate to the care and management of your diabetes.(see Diabetes Management) They can assist you with your particular concerns and situations, including the effect of diabetes on your work or family life.
The team is also prepared to show you how a wide range of available resources :
- Advances in treatment.
- The care of other professionals.
- A proper outlook on your part.
- And the assistance of family and friends can help you deal more successfully with your diabetes.
The Role of a Diabetes Pharmacist – Video Guide
Among the additional resources you may need are specialists who deal with specific complications of diabetes, for example, nephrologist (kidney specialist) or an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) . In fact, if you have diabetes, you should have your eyes examined yearly. Your health-care team may refer you to these specialists, when needed, to either prevent or treat such complications.
Most people turn to their diabetes treatment team for help managing their diabetes while continuing to see their primary-care physician for their other medical needs. The diabetes team works with the patient, and the patient’s primary-care physician, to develop and monitor the individualized treatment plan.
It’s comforting to know that a team of experts is ready to assist you. But remember, you are the most important member of the crew. You are the person who ultimately will be responsible for steering the ship to safe harbor.