Most of us know that there are two types of diabetes. With some exceptions, including latent autoimmune diabetes, most diabetics fall into the category of Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. If you’re not sure what category you fall into, simply ask your doctor. Many times we can tell based on the medications you take. Remember, neither type of diabetes is worse than the other. You may get diabetes in different ways, but both types of diabetes cause harm to the body in a similar manner.

Typically, normal blood glucose levels should be between 70-130 mg/dL after an eight hour fast and less than 180 mg/dL one to two hours after a meal. These are also the target goals for blood sugar levels for a diabetic patient.

There are three basic ways we are able to help control the amount of blood sugar in your body, commonly called the “Three Legged Stool Approach”. The three legs of the stool represent healthy eating, exercise and medications. You will notice that two out of the three legs, diet and exercise, are controlled by YOU! Each leg of this stool is just as important as the other. With regards to your Diabetes Health Care Team, you are the most important member. After all, you are the one who is affected by diabetes and cares for it every day. Only you know how you are feeling and what you are willing and able to do. You do the exercise. You make and eat the foods on your meal plan. You take the medicine or inject the insulin. You check your blood sugar levels and keep track of the results. And of course, you are the first to notice any problems. Your health care team depends on you to honestly tell them how you feel. Your healthcare team is comprised of numerous professionals, including your various doctors, your family and friends, and SHOULD include your friendly neighborhood pharmacist. Some of the members of that team include the following.

Primary Care Provider (PCP)- This may be an internist or family medicine doctor. Because your PCP is your main source of care, he or she will most likely head up your healthcare team. You need to feel comfortable in being completely open and honest with you PCP. You should visit your PCP at least twice a year for general check-ups and more often of necessary for sick visits.

Endocrinologist- An endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the endocrine system, including diabetes. Many people living with diabetes may never need to visit an endocrinologist to continue effective care of their diabetes. However, a referral may be made if you are a newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetic or a Type 2 diabetic having trouble controlling their diabetes or if complications develop.

Eye doctor- At least annual visits to the optometrist or ophthalmologist are important as diabetes can affect the blood vessels in the eyes. In most cases, when eye problems are detected early, there are very reliable treatments. Be sure that your eye doctor is sending regular reports to your PCP about your eye health.

podiatrist- Semi-annual visits to the podiatrist are a good idea. Because diabetes reduces or impairs blood flow to the lower extremities even small sores can turn into major problems. Trimming your own toenails or filing a callous might just produce such a problem. You should inspect your feet every day, but allow the podiatrist to treat potential problems. It is also important they coordinate your care with your PCP.

dentist- People living with diabetes are at a greater risk for gum disease. Semi-annual visits to the dentist can help ward off any major problems with your oral care.

nephrologist- Having diabetes can damage your kidneys and cause them to become “leaky.” If your kidneys are already damaged, you should be seeing a nephrologist, or kidney doctor. Depending on how severely your kidneys are damaged, your nephrologist will tell you how often they want to see you.

pharmacist- Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who must know about the chemistry of the products they dispense and what effects, both good and bad, medications have on the body. It is important to find a pharmacy you like, and stick with it. This way the pharmacist can keep an accurate and updated profile of your medical history, allergies and medications. The pharmacist is an expert in over-the-counter medicines for colds or other minor illnesses. They can monitor for potential drug to drug interactions as well as drug to disease interactions.

These healthcare providers, along with Certified Diabetes Educators, Registered Dieticians, and Exercise Trainers play a vital role in your care. Your family and friends can also play a key role in holding you accountable to your treatment goals and plan. Your family sees you more often than any of the aforementioned providers, and they have a vested interest in your success—so make sure you keep those closest to you involved in your care.