Diabetes

Why is it Important to Attend a Diabetes Review?

Attending regular diabetes reviews is a crucial part of managing your health. These appointments allow your healthcare provider to:

• Assess and review your individual treatment plan.

• Provide support with diet, lifestyle, and overall wellbeing.

• Detect and address potential complications early.

Early detection and intervention can prevent many diabetes-related complications, such as:

• Kidney disease (renal disease)

• Eye problems (retinopathy)

• High blood pressure and cholesterol, which can lead to strokes and heart disease.

At Oasis PCN, we’re here to help you stay on top of your diabetes and live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Learn More About Lifestyle and Diabetes

If you’d like to understand the science behind current lifestyle advice and how it applies to chronic health conditions like diabetes, prediabetes, obesity, hypertension, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), we invite you to join our interactive SMART initiative webinars.

What to Expect During a Diabetes Review

At Oasis PCN, we conduct diabetes reviews every 6 and 12 months to ensure your health is on track. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment:

1. Before Your Appointment:

   • Bring a urine sample with you, which will be sent to the lab for analysis.

2. During Your Appointment:

   • Blood Tests: Blood will be taken to check your diabetes markers, as well as B12 and folate levels (especially if you’re on high-dose metformin or experiencing symptoms of deficiency).

   • Vital Checks:

     • Pulse and manual blood pressure measurement.

     • Height, waist circumference, and weight.

   • Foot Check:

     • Examination of your feet and pulses.

     • Advice on foot care to prevent complications.

   • Health Discussion:

     • Any issues related to diabetes or general health.

     • Mood, memory, breathlessness, chest pain, or symptoms of erectile dysfunction (if applicable).

     • Concerns about medication or adherence.

3. For Insulin Users:

   • Injection Technique: Checking for proper technique and rotation of injection sites.

   • Equipment Check: Ensuring your glucose monitor is working and you have a sharps bin.

   • Hypo Management: Advice on treating low blood sugar (hypos) and driving regulations (DVLA guidelines).

   • Sick Day Rules: Guidance on managing diabetes during illness.

4. Follow-Up:

   • A telephone call with our lead diabetes nurse to discuss your results and review your medication.

Your Health, Your Priority

Managing diabetes is a team effort, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Regular reviews and proactive care can help you avoid complications and maintain a high quality of life.

Book your next diabetes review today and take control of your health.