A diagnosis of diabetes can be frightening to patients who know a lot about diabetes as well as to those who know little about the disease. Asking a physician and other medical professionals the right questions about diabetes care can help patients obtain the information they need to manage their condition correctly and confidently.

Recommendations from diabetes organizations and government agencies call for people with diabetes to visit their physicians four times annually or more often when necessary, such as during pregnancy or when having trouble controlling glucose (blood sugar). This is a substantial investment on the part of the patient in time, effort and finances. Preparation can help patients to get the most out of these visits.  

Self-education is particularly important today, when a job change or a sudden switch in health insurance plans can require a patient to find a new physician. Patients should take an active role in informing their new doctor about their medical history. When patients keep and update their own records, this can assist physicians in understanding individual needs and circumstances. The more knowledgeable patients are about their diabetes care, the better equipped they will be to manage the disease and handle sudden changes.