NDMS

FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES

WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE SURE I AM GETTING THE BEST CARE?

When you have diabetes, it is important that you receive consistent care from your family doctor and healthcare team. Remember: You and your healthcare team are partners in your healthcare, so the more actively you participate in your care, the better able you will be to understand and manage your diabetes.

Here are some tips for ensuring that you have productive and informative interactions with your physician and healthcare team:

  • If you don’t have a regular family doctor or a regular healthcare team, try to find one. Research has shown that people with diabetes who have a regular healthcare provider have fewer emergency room visits and hospital admissions. They also have better blood glucose control and receive more preventive care.
  • You and your doctor are partners in your healthcare, so become an active participant in managing your health!
  • Make a list in advance of the things you want to discuss at your appointment.
  • Share information: Tell your doctor about any recent symptoms you have had, and any other medications or herbal supplements you’ve been taking. It’s important you provide as complete a picture as possible of your current health when you visit your doctor.
  • If you don’t understand something your doctor is saying, ask questions until you do understand. Remember, there are no “dumb” questions, and sometimes complex medical language can be difficult to understand the first time you hear it.
  • Take notes, so that you can review them later.
  • Ask your doctor to write down instructions for you.
  • Ask your doctor for any printed material he/she has, or would recommend, regarding diabetes. The more informed you are, the better able you are to manage your diabetes!
  • Don’t forget that other members of your healthcare team – nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists – are excellent sources of information.
  • Patient support groups can be very helpful. It’s always good to know you are not alone!

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