How to Find an Effective Medical Team Member

The process of finding the right health care professional to help
you manage your Type 2 diabetes can take awhile – Take your time. Not
only do you want to find a professional that takes the time to listen
to your concerns while you’re in his or her office, but it’s also
important to find a professional that is available if you call the
office with a concern or one that will at least return your call within
a reasonable amount of time.

Diabetic and Doctor

The primary factor to focus on when selecting a doctor is to trust your intuition. Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you feel connected with the doctor?

• Does the doctor seem to be available when you need him or her?

• Does he or she take time to answer your questions without rushing you out the door?

• Does the doctor try to connect one medical issue with another so that you can have a complete understanding of your condition?

Here are some other factors to keep in mind when selecting the right medical team member:

Mental and Physical Understanding

Diabetes may be a physical issue, but diabetics also need to pay attention to their mental health.

It is important to establish a relationship with a doctor who is
willing to take time to look you in the eye and listen to your
concerns. When it comes to your health, it is not worth it to settle
for a doctor that focuses more on the paper than the person (even when
the paper is important!)

Personal Talks – The Sex Talk
As a Diabetic, chances are good that you will need to speak with your
doctor about very personal issues, including matters related to
erectile dysfunction and menopause. Therefore, you should feel
comfortable addressing these health issues with your medical
practitioner. Your doctor should also ask you questions about these
very personal aspects of your life.

If you have never been comfortable discussing issues related to sex
and sexuality with your doctor, remember that he or she is in the
profession of helping people achieve optimal health in all areas of
their lives, including their sexual relationships. You doctor will not
judge you based on the confidential information you share. And, more
than likely, your doctor has had other patients that have the same
health concerns.

Alerting People to Your Condition

It is important for you to alert your family
members, co-workers, and friends to your diabetes so that they can be
prepared in the event that something happens to you. Often, diabetics
will even wear a wristband so that if they fall into a coma, get into a
car accident, or need some form of medical attention, medical
professionals will be alerted to the fact that the diabetic may need
special treatment or attention.