Members of A diabetes team

Endocrinologist/diabetologist

The advice of a specialist physician is valuable for people with complicated problems and weight problems related to diabetes . A shared care approach by general practitioner and specialist will provide the best combination of specialised expertise and continuity of care. In many cases the specialist will be part of an organised, multi-disciplinary diabetes care team which can provide a comprehensive diabetes education program.

Diabetes educator

The diabetes educator can often spend time consolidating the patient's knowledge and skills regarding eating plan, insulin injections, sick day management, physical activity, self-monitoring, medication usage, diabetes complications etc. The Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) has established a credentialling program. Qualified professionals are "ADEA Credentialled Diabetes Educators". If available, the services of a diabetes educator need to be sought at an early stage and a continuing liaison established.

Dietitian

The role of the dietitian in the management of diabetes is paramount. Lifestyle changes alone (healthy food and regular exercise with ensuing weight loss) are sufficient for glycaemic control in the majority of patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Recommendations should be individualised to maximise cooperation. Early referral to a dietitian is desirable to ensure detailed education on this most important aspect of management. The general practitioner must understand the principles of dietary advice to be able to reinforce the dietary recommendations for the patient.

Podiatrist

The podiatrist renders expert preventive care. If there is evidence of neuropathy, micro- or macro-vascular disease or anatomical problems with the feet, early referral is desirable and regular review is necessary. Foot complications account for over 50% of hospital bed days occupied by patients with diabetes and are the most common cause of non-traumatic amputation.

Ophthalmologist/optometrist

All people with diabetes need to be assessed regularly by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Early detection of retinopathy, before visual loss occurs, markedly improves prognosis for sight. Any deterioration in vision requires immediate referral back to the ophthalmologist.

Exercise professional

When initiating a physical activity program in a patient who has been relatively inactive, the help of an exercise physiologist is of benefit. Rebates for attendance at exercise physiologists are available for patients under the Enhanced Primary Care program, as part of a Team Care Arrangement (see Systems for care).

General practitioner

The general practitioner has the central role in coordinating  daily management of the person with diabetes. The general practitioner is is provided with a full report from the clinic so they have all the infomration they need  when manking managment decisions about the patient's diabetic care.

Oral health professional

Dental and periodontal problems are common in people with diabetes who need to see a dentist regularly (eg: yearly). Rebates for attendance at private dentists are available for patients under the Enhanced Primary Care program, as part of a Team Care Arrangement (see Systems for care).