via the National Diabetes Education Program

Step 4: Get routine care to stay healthy.

See your health care team at least twice a year to find and treat any problems early.

At each visit, be sure you have a:

  • blood pressure check
  • foot check
  • weight check
  • review of your self-care plan

Two times each year, have an:

  • A1C test. It may be checked more often if it is over 7.

Once each year, be sure you have a:

  • cholesterol test
  • triglyceride test – a type of blood fat
  • complete foot exam
  • dental exam to check teeth and gums
  • dilated eye exam to check for eye problems
  • flu shot
  • urine and a blood test to check for kidney problems

At least once in your lifetime, get a:

  • pneumonia shot
  • hepatitis B shot

Medicare and diabetes.

If you have Medicare, check to see how your plan covers diabetes care. Medicare covers some of the costs for:

  • diabetes education
  • diabetes supplies
  • diabetes medicine
  • visits with a dietitian
  • special shoes, if you need them

Actions you can take

  • Ask your health care team about these and other tests you may need. Ask what your results mean.
  • Write down the date and time of your next visit.
  • Use the card at the back of this booklet to keep a record of your diabetes care.
  • If you have Medicare, check your plan.

See our Resource List for help with managing diabetes and living a full life.