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This diabetes care checklist and your Argus Health benefits can help you keep your health and overall wellbeing on track. For more detail on these tests and services, consult our Guide to Essential Diabetes Health Checks.
Make a Plan with Your Care Team
Managing diabetes requires teamwork and you are the most important member of your care team. Obtain medical advice and guidance by scheduling regular appointments with your primary care doctor and diabetes specialist- they are excellent resources and can assist with connecting you with additional support to keep you healthy.
Take this checklist when you see your doctor- know your numbers, what they mean, and discuss your goals at each visit.
MEDICAL CARE
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Routine Office Visits & Tests |
Annual Health Checks |
Other Visits & Services |
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? Blood glucose (HbA1c) test ? Blood pressure ? Weight or body composition ? Medication review |
? Dilated eye exam ? Kidney function tests ? Blood fats (Cholesterol & lipid) tests
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? Foot and leg check (as needed) ? Dental exam and cleaning (2 times a year) ? Flu shot (Once a year)
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LIFESTYLE SUPPORT
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? Care coordination
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If you are managing other conditions along with diabetes, you may benefit from enhanced care coordination support. Our Thrive. Case Management program is available to you, at no additional cost. Learn more. |
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? Emotional and mental wellbeing support
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Living with with a long-term condition like diabetes can affect your emotional wellbeing. If you are struggling, seek specialist support from a psychologist. |
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? Advice on diet
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You should see a registered dietitian when you are first diagnosed with diabetes and for regular follow up visits. They can teach you how certain foods affect your blood sugar while also considering your medications, lifestyle and other factors. A nutritionist is not the same as a dietitian- they are not licensed to provide medical advice to manage health conditions. |
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? Help to stop smoking
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If you smoke, giving it up is the best thing you can do for your health. learn more about how your Argus Health benefits can help you quit. |
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? Diabetes education course
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The Bermuda Diabetes Association is another community-based resource for diabetes education. |
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? Educating your friends & family about your condition |
Your friends, family and colleagues can also be supports. Educate the people close to you to spot signs and symptoms of low and high blood sugar. |
Bottom Line
Remember, you are the most important member of your care team and your health plan and healthcare team can help you thrive while living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Having all of these checks, tests and services annually can help reduce your risk of developing serious diabetes complications and greatly improve your quality of life.
For more information about your health plan benefits that can help keep your overall wellbeing on track, sign in to your secure Argus Vantage account or contact our Thrive. Nurse at thrive.nurse@argus.bm or 298-0888.