Your Child's Diabetes Care Team

Having a child with diabetes can be overwhelming. Fortunately, a team of experts can guide you now and in the years to come.

Diabetes care team

Your child may see the following specialists:

• Healthcare provider. Your child's healthcare provider may be a diabetes specialist (also known as an endocrinologist,) pediatrician, or general practitioner who has experience caring for people with diabetes. Check that both you and your child feel comfortable asking questions and that you understand the explanations given.

• Diabetes educator. A certified diabetes care and educator specialist (CDCES) is trained to help you and your child learn about diabetes and make changes in diabetes care. A diabetes educator can help you and your child better understand the biology of diabetes. A CDCES can also help your child fit diabetes care into their lifestyle. They can also show you the correct methods for giving injections or checking blood sugar (glucose). Your child's healthcare provider can advise a CDCES in your area.

• Occupational therapist. This professional can help you and your child adapt self-care routines. This can help you and your child meet your diabetes care goals, while living as normally as possible.

• Dietitian. A dietitian can help you and your child create a healthful eating plan. It's a good idea to talk with a dietitian at least once a year.

• Mental health provider. It can be hard to adjust to diabetes. A counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker can help you and your child cope.

• Ophthalmologist. Your child should have their eyes checked by an ophthalmologist regularly. Their primary healthcare provider will tell you how often to do so. 

• Pharmacist. A pharmacist can help you choose the diabetes supplies that are right for your child.

• Nurse. A registered nurse can help your child learn the day-to-day aspects of diabetes care.

• Dentist. Diabetics are at increased risk for some gum diseases. Have your child see a dentist every 6 months. Let the dentist know your child has diabetes. 

• Podiatrist. This medical doctor can address sores, calluses, and other problems of the feet and lower legs that could lead to complications.

• Fitness professional. This expert in exercise can help your child match their blood sugar levels and medicines to their goals of physical fitness and exercise.

As much as possible, let your child take charge of their diabetes care.