Who is part of your health care team?
Most people with diabetes get care from primary care providers, such as internists, family physicians, or pediatricians. A team of health care providers can also improve your diabetes care.
In addition to a primary care provider, your health care team may include
an endocrinologist for more specialized diabetes care
a dietitian, a nurse, or a certified diabetes educator—experts who can provide information about managing diabetes
a counselor or mental health professional
a pharmacist
a dentist
an ophthalmologist or an optometrist for eye care
a podiatrist for foot care
If diabetes makes you feel sad or angry, or if you have other problems that worry you, you should talk with a counselor or mental health professional. Your doctor or certified diabetes educator can help you find a counselor.
Talk with your doctor about what vaccines and immunizations, or shots, you should get to keep from getting sick. Preventing illness is an important part of taking care of your diabetes.
When you see members of your health care team, ask lots of questions. Prepare a list of questions before your visit. Be sure you understand everything you need to know about taking care of your diabetes.