Information for the public

What your diabetes care team will do

What your diabetes care team will do

You will need to see your GP or nurse regularly, and they will help and support you to manage your diabetes.

You will also have a thorough check‑up every year – your 'annual review'. This involves several checks that may happen at different times and in different places.

Your diabetes care team will work with you to agree a plan for your care that suits your needs and circumstances. They will ask about:

  • your medical history and general health

  • if you have any disabilities (for example if you have any sight problems)

  • if you take any medicines regularly

  • your lifestyle and home life

  • any family history of diabetes or heart problems.

They should ask about your own needs and about any cultural preferences because this may affect the type of treatment you choose.

Your diabetes care team will work closely with you, and you can ask for help or advice at any time. What the team does will depend on how long you have had diabetes for and how well managed it is, but should include:

  • giving you advice and support about type 2 diabetes, including details about support groups

  • offering you a course that helps you understand more about type 2 diabetes and what you can do to manage it

  • diet and lifestyle advice

  • checking your blood pressure at least once a year

  • checking your blood glucose

  • testing your HbA1c levels (which reflect your average blood glucose level over the past 2 to 3 months) at least every 3 to 6 months, and agreeing targets with you

  • discussing medicines to control your blood glucose

  • explaining about insulin and showing you how to inject insulin if you need it

  • explaining about the symptoms, risks and treatment of hypos

  • looking at whether you have cardiovascular disease and your risk of getting it in future

  • making sure you have regular eye screening

  • making sure you have regular foot checks (as part of your annual review)

  • encouraging you to see a dentist regularly, so they can check for gum disease

  • checking for other long-term complications that can be caused by type 2 diabetes, such as problems with your kidneys or nerves.

If it is possible that you could get pregnant, you should be given information about contraception and family planning. See NICE's guideline and information for the public on diabetes in pregnancy.

Some treatments or care described in this information may not be suitable for you. If you think that your treatment does not match this advice, talk to your doctor or nurse.

Questions to ask about your care

  • Please tell me more about living with type 2 diabetes

  • How often will I need to see the doctor or nurse?

  • Why would I need to go to the diabetes clinic at a hospital?

  • What sorts of health problems are more common in people with type 2 diabetes? What can I do to help prevent these?

  • Who should I contact if I have any questions or am worried about my diabetes?

  • Can you give me written information? What websites are helpful?

  • Can you point me towards local or national support groups?

  • Information Standard