Type 2 Diabetes – 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 DoctorThe 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.

•Diabetics have a tendency to become depressed, fatigued and overwhelmed by their condition. Therefore, it is important to find a doctor that not only understands the physical aspects of Diabetes, but also the mental challenges that many Diabetics face.

•Make sure that when you consult with your doctor, he or she asks questions and attempts to connect multiple health issues. For example, if you tell your doctor that you have cold feet, your doctor should check your blood circulation. If you tell your doctor that you have difficulty breathing, he or she should run a test of your cardiovascular system with the understanding that Diabetes not only affects your pancreas and blood sugar, but also your entire body.

Eye Contact
Most people expect their health care providers to have direct eye contact with them during every visit. Direct eye contact helps to establish that your doctor is not only paying attention to you, but that he or she is taking the time to glance away from your chart to actually listen to you.

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 TalksThe 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.