What we do for patients with diabetes
Most of our diabetes patients are adults who were told their blood sugar was high at a checkup, or who have lived with type 2 diabetes for years and want a doctor close to home who keeps up with it. Either way, the goal is the same: keep your blood sugar in a safe range, protect your heart, kidneys, eyes, and feet, and keep you doing the things you want to do.
At a typical diabetes visit we:
- Check your A1C, the three-month average of your blood sugar, with an in-office blood draw
- Review your home glucose readings and your medications, including insulin if you use it
- Check blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney function, because diabetes and heart disease travel together
- Examine your feet and order the yearly eye exam
- Talk through food, activity, and the parts of the plan that are hard to keep up with
Newer diabetes medicines
Diabetes treatment has changed a great deal in the last ten years. Beyond metformin, there are medicines that lower blood sugar and also protect the heart and kidneys, and some that help with weight. Which one fits depends on your other conditions, your insurance, and what you can afford. We walk through those choices with you, and we handle the prior authorizations when a plan requires them.
Prediabetes
If your A1C is between 5.7 and 6.4, you have prediabetes. This is the point where changes to eating and activity can prevent diabetes altogether, and we would rather see you now than after a diagnosis. A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is a good time to get screened.
Medicare and diabetes supplies
Medicare covers A1C testing, glucose meters and test strips, continuous glucose monitors for many insulin users, diabetic shoes when medically needed, and nutrition counseling. We can write the orders and help with the paperwork.
Common questions
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How often should I see the doctor for diabetes?
Every three to six months for most patients. If your blood sugar is not yet controlled or your medicines have just changed, we may see you sooner.
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Can you do my A1C and other labs in the office?
Yes. Both offices draw blood in-house, so you do not need a separate trip to a lab. Your doctor reviews the results with you.
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Do I need a referral to see you for diabetes?
No. As internal medicine doctors, we manage diabetes directly as your primary care physicians. We refer to an endocrinologist only when a case is unusually complex.
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Does Medicare cover diabetes care?
Yes. Medicare and Medicare Advantage cover diabetes visits, A1C testing, supplies, and diabetes education. We participate in Medicare and are part of the WellMed care network.