Here to help!

Meet the four key people you need on your care team. Wellbeing awaits!

When you’re managing diabetes, support is crucial. Dr Kate Marsh explains why these players are essential to your team.

1

General practitioner Your GP is the coordinator of your overall health care. They may be the main expert helping you manage your diabetes, particularly if you have type 2. Find a GP you can rely on and see them regularly.

2

Endocrinologist Everyone with type 1 and those with more complex type 2 need an endo. They provide advice on managing insulin and any other medications. These experts can also diagnose other endocrine conditions such as thyroid problems and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can be more common in those with diabetes.

3

Diabetes educator This person can help you understand and interpret your BGLs, deal with highs and lows and educate you on how to handle sick days, manage your medications and learn to give injections.

4

Dietitian Experts in food and nutrition, a dietitian will help you understand how different foods affect your BGLs, how to balance food with meds or insulin and how to read food labels. They can also help you develop a meal plan to suit your personal needs and preferences.

Exercise physiologist

To develop an exercise plan.

Podiatrist Will assess and manage any diabetes-related foot problems you may have.

Ophthalmologist To monitor and treat diabetesrelated eye problems.

Pharmacist Can help with advice about medications.

Psychologist To assist you with coming to terms with diabetes or help you when you’re feeling diabetes-related distress or burnout.

Local or online diabetes support groups Can provide friendship and encouragement when you need a little TLC.