Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare team is important. It allows for timeous interventions when necessary and forms the basis of managing a chronic condition, such as diabetes. If any change or intensification of treatment is required, early implementation can delay the onset of diabetes complications.
It’s also important to communicate with your healthcare team between appointments, this can lead to better outcomes. Confirm what forms of communication the practice uses: e-mail, phone calls or WhatsApp.
Also ask about emergency contact details or hotline numbers.
Honest communication is important. Remember, these diabetes check-ups are confidential. If you feel that you’re unable to be completely honest, it may be worth considering changing practitioners. Keep an open mind and give input on your treatment plan.
What check-ups do you need to do?
Every three / six months
• HbA1C (glycated haemoglobin)
• Blood pressure
These can be done by your doctor or diabetes educator. The frequency of these check-ups will depend on how stable your diabetes is but may also be influenced by your medical aid reimbursement.
Once a year
Feet -This can be done by your doctor, diabetes educator or podiatrist.If you have cuts, bruises, or numbness in your feet the podiatrist is the ideal person to see. Otherwise see your general practitioner as soon as possible.
Eyes -This can be done either every year or every second year by your optometrist. Remember, this check-up is to look for any damage to blood vessels in your eyes which you’ll not know about. If you have any visual changes always seek advice immediately from your optician or doctor.
Cholesterol and kidneys – Blood and urine tests will assess kidney function and a fasting blood test will measure cholesterol levels.
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