Educates people and helps them take control

Often coordinates treatment

After diagnosis, to learn about diabetes and the daily treatment (for example, how to give an insulin injection)

As needed, when daily treatment needs adjusting

• Internist
• Family physician
• Pediatrician

Other health professionals that may serve as primary care coordinators:

• Nurse practitioner
• Physician assistant

May serve as diabetes care coordinator and is responsible for the day-to-day medical management of diabetes

Nurse practitioners or physician assistants may also serve as care coordinators.

Endocrinologist or pediatric endocrinologist

Specialty medical care (may coordinate care as well)

Sometimes regular visits, or as treatment problems come up

• Nephrologist (kidney specialist)
• Cardiologist (heart specialist)
• Neurologist (nerve specialist)
• Ophthalmologist or optometrist (eye specialists)
• Podiatrist (foot doctor) or orthopedic surgeon (bone and joint doctor)

Provide specialty care for specific problems

Ophthalmologists and podiatrists provide preventive eye and foot care, which helps prevent those specific complications.

For evaluation, or when a problem develops.

Educates people and helps them set up and follow their daily meal plan

Whenever diet and self-management need explaining

Educates people and helps them develop an appropriate exercise program for their fitness level

Initial visit and periodic consultations as needed

• Psychiatrist
• Psychologist
• Social worker

Helps people manage stress and cope with emotional problems, such as depression, that may develop

Regularly (perhaps weekly), for as long as psychological symptoms go on