It is very difficult for someone to accept that he is diabetic. Diabetes requires regular conscious adjustments in lifestyle day in and day out. You have to understand the conditions of disease and discover the new practical ways to deal with it.
When patients are diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, they are frequently faced with the need for extensive medical care for the rest of their lives. Because of the extensive ongoing treatments needed by patients with diabetes, there may be a team of health care professionals who are involved in the care of these patients.
Primary care physicians provide much of the routine care for patients with diabetes, including performing eye exams and the foot exams. This write-up talks about some of the primary health care professionals who may care for patients with diabetes.
Primary Care Physicians (PCP)
- Family Practitioners
- General Practitioners
Many patients are initially seen by their PCP, who may treat them or refer them to a specialist. If PCP’s are providing the majority of care to patients;
- They will perform periodic physical examinations
- Monitor laboratory tests
- Provide educational materials on nutrition, exercise, and treatment.
Nurses and physical assistants
- Nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants provide health care services, typically under the supervision of a physician; may work in specialty areas including diabetes.
- Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who have advanced education and clinical training and can perform many of the duties of physicians.
- Physician assistants are licensed health care professionals who practice some aspects of medicine, including evaluating changes in patient conditions and prescribing medications under physician supervision.
In addition to PCP’s, a team of specialist health care professionals are often involved in the management of patients with diabetes. These specialists are mentioned below with their roles in diabetes care.
Endocrinologists
- Physicians trained in disease that affect hormones, including diabetes, thyroid diseases, and hormone imbalance.
- He may be the primary physician or consultant for patients with diabetes and difficult-to-control- glucose levels or other comorbid conditions.
Cardiologists
- Physicians trained in diseases that affect the cardiovascular system, including the heart, arteries, and veins.
- Cardiologists may treat patients with diabetes and diagnosed cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular risk factors. They may provide the majority of care or work closely with the patients PCP’s or endocrinologists.
Nephrologists
- Physicians trained in disease that affect the kidneys.
- Patients with diabetes who need treatment for diabetic nephropathy may be referred to a nephrologist.
Ophthalmologists/Optometrists
- In order to screen for diabetic retinopathy, patients with diabetes should receive a dilated eye examination annually from an ophthalmologist or optometrist who is knowledgeable and experienced in the diagnosis,and management of diabetic retinopathy.
Podiastrists
- Physicians with diabetes should receive an annual foot examination with particular attention to high risk foot conditions, including bony deformities, limitation in joint mobility, and problems with gait and balance.
Infectious disease specialists
- Infections disease specialists are needed if a patient has an established infection.
- Patient with diabetes have decreased sensation, especially in their feet, and they may not notice a cut or sore that can become infected; some patients with diabetes also have decreased blood flow, which can make the problem worse, promoting establishment of infection.
Mental health professionals
- Psycho-logic state can impact the patients ability to care themselves.
Vascular surgeons
- The professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases of the blood vessels. Essential when vascular obstructions develop.
In addition to PCP’s specialists, patients with diabetes often consult with allied health professionals. They are mentioned below;
- Dietitians. Patients with diabetes will most likely need to modify their diets, and registered dietitians can help plan meals and educate patients about eating in accordance with nutritional guidelines and need for glycemic control.
- Diabetes Educators. Health care professionals with specialized patient education skills who are certified in diabetes education. They teach patients about optimal diabetes care; topics include self-monitoring of blood glucose; insulin administration, and risk factor modifying activities.
- Exercise Physiologists. Individuals with knowledge and training in exercise physiology. Exercise may improve insulin sensitivity and assist in decreasing elevated blood glucose levels.
