Click the image above to download the "Your Diabetes Management Team" PDF to print and share.

While diabetes affects the body negatively from head to toe, it can be controlled successfully with guidance and treatment from a team of medical specialists.

Primary Care Physician

A family physician or internist plays the important role of coordinator. He or she is often the first doctor one sees after a diabetes diagnosis and makes referrals to other specialists on the treatment team.

Endocrinologist

This specialist treats many internal diseases and is often called upon to care for a person with diabetes who is having difficulty controlling the disease.

Ophthalmologist/Optometrist

Similar to how diabetes restricts blood flow to the feet, diabetes can also affect blood flow to the eyes, resulting in diabetic eye disease. This condition is highly preventable if the disease is managed properly.

Dentist

Patients with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease and infections in the mouth due to excess blood sugar, so keeping up with regular dental appointments is important.

Podiatrist

Podiatrists are uniquely qualified to treat the foot and ankle. Diabetes can alter nerve function as well as limit or restrict blood flow to the feet. Because of this problem, people with diabetes can develop foot complications that may result in amputation if left untreated. If you have diabetes or are at risk for the disease, have a podiatrist check your feet at least twice a year for symptoms, such as a loss of sensation, burning, or tingling.

Vascular Surgeon

Diabetes can increase the chances for development of several vascular diseases. Your risk of vascular disease increases with the length of time you have had diabetes, and your risk can increase if you have high blood pressure, smoke, are inactive, are overweight, or eat a high-fat diet.

Pharmacist

Successfully managing diabetes usually requires taking prescription medication. Talk with your pharmacist to ensure you understand the risks of using over-the-counter (OTC) medications with prescribed medications.