You are the most important member of your health care team. Discuss the exam, test and immunization schedules that follow with your health care provider. This will help him or her find diseases/problems in the early stages when they are more treatable.
Exams
Type of Exam
How often needed
Doctor office visit - includes diabetes treatment plan review, foot exam, height, weight and blood pressure check**
You should have this test at least twice a year, more often if A1c goals are not met.
Less than 7 percent
Total cholesterol
Every year
Under 200
LDL"bad" cholesterol
Every year
Under 100
HDL "good" cholesterol
Every year
Men: 40 or higher
Women: 50 or higher
Triglycerides
Every year
Under 150
Urinalysis
Every year
Microalbuminuria (kidney)
Every year
Under 30 mcg/mL
Blood pressure
Every visit
Under 130/80
Immunizations
Type of immunization
How often needed
Flu shot
Every fall
Pneumonia vaccine
One time, although some people may need a second dose -- ask your health care provider.
Tetanus
Every 10 years
Information about exams, tests and immunizations
Tip
Contact your health insurance provider about coverages for tests, exams and shots. A doctor's referral for health services does not guarantee coverage.
Retinal eye exam: A complete eye exam includes dilation of the retina to check for disease (retinopathy) or change. This may prevent blindness.
Foot exam: A complete exam of your feet includes testing for feeling, color and pulse. One of the tools used is called a monofilament.
Diabetes education: Learn about individual or group classes.
Diabetes education with a dietitian: a dietitian can discuss healthy food choices and help customize a calorie and carbohydrate count that fits well with your schedule and lifestyle.
Hemoglobin A1c: This lab test reflects your average blood glucose* level over the past 3 months.
Cholesterol: This blood test measures lipids (fats) that circulate and may clog arteries. High cholesterol may lead to heart damage. Medication can prevent or reverse possible damage and lower your risk.
Microalbumin: This test finds small amounts of protein in urine. An increase of the amount of protein in urine is an indication of kidney failure in people who have diabetes.
Blood pressure check: Untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, leg diseases, kidney failure and eye diseases. An ideal blood pressure is 130/80 or lower.
Flu shot: Flu vaccine will prevent or lessen flu symptoms November through February.
Pneumonia shot: Pneumonia vaccine will prevent pneumococcal pneumonia in adults older than age 65 and those who have high-risk conditions (such as diabetes or asthma).
Be proactive at your next doctor visit
It's important to make the most of every doctor visit. Here are conversation pointers for your next medical appointment.
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