Diabetes isn't a solo condition. A good diabetes care team gives you support, answers, and a plan you can actually follow. This page explains the roles to look for, how to communicate with the team, and practical steps to keep your blood sugar in check.
Start by naming core team members. Your primary care doctor handles routine checks and coordinates care. An endocrinologist specializes in diabetes management—ask for a referral if your sugars are hard to control. A certified diabetes educator (CDE) teaches insulin use, glucose monitoring, and carb counting. A registered dietitian (RD) builds meal plans that fit your life. Add a podiatrist for foot checks and an ophthalmologist for yearly eye exams.
Include mental health and social supports. Diabetes stress, anxiety, and burnout are real. A counselor or psychologist helps with emotional tools and coping strategies. A social worker can connect you to insurance help, drug assistance, and community programs. Family members or a close friend count—someone who knows your plan and can step in during emergencies.
Make meetings simple and actionable. Bring a log of blood sugars, a list of medicines, recent A1c results, and questions. Ask for clear targets: A1c goal, fasting and post-meal ranges, blood pressure and cholesterol numbers. Confirm who adjusts medicines and when to call. If you use devices like a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or insulin pump, ask the team to review data with you.
Create a written plan. A one-page care plan should list daily medicines, target ranges, sick-day rules, and emergency contacts. Keep an up-to-date list of allergies and a copy of recent labs. Store the plan on your phone and a printed copy at home.
Practical tips for daily life. Check feet daily for cuts, swelling, or numbness. Carry fast-acting carbs for low blood sugar and learn how to treat it. Schedule eye exams yearly and kidney checks as recommended. Stay active—short daily walks help blood sugar control—and aim for consistent meal timing if you’re on insulin.
Use telehealth and technology wisely. Video visits work well for routine check-ins and device reviews. Most teams can review CGM reports remotely. If cost is a concern, ask the pharmacist or social worker about cheaper generics, discount programs, or manufacturer coupons.
Know when to seek urgent care. Very high sugars with vomiting, severe dehydration, trouble breathing, or confusion need immediate help. Also get urgent care for infected wounds or red, hot feet.
Your diabetes care team should make life easier, not harder. Ask for simple instructions, written goals, and follow-up timelines. Small, steady steps—clear targets, a quick action plan, and regular checks—add up to better control and fewer surprises.
Prepare three key questions for each visit: What should I change about my medicines? What habit will improve my numbers this month? When should I return or call if things worsen? Write answers down — it helps follow-up and keeps your whole team aligned.
