What happens at a Diabetes Clinic?
Most people with type 1 diabetes will attend a hospital clinic. If you have type 2 diabetes then you can attend either a hospital diabetes clinic or your GP or both.
At the hospital clinic, blood samples are always taken and tested for:
Blood sugar: This is just a spot-check on your blood sugar levels and the result is often available immediately.
Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): This is done at every visit and tells how well controlled your diabetes has been over the previous 2 months. Very good control means a HbA1c that is less than 7%; this is equivalent to keeping your blood glucose between 4 and 7 before meals.
Creatinine: This is checked at each visit and tells how well your kidneys are working
Cholesterol levels: These are checked at each visit and tell how much cholesterol and ‘fat’ is in your blood.
Please wear sleeves that can be rolled up above the elbow. The HbA1c blood sample is sometimes tested while you wait (takes about 20 minutes). This allows the Doctor to decide about treatment when you are seen. Your GP can also do these tests, but the results are not available while you wait. Your practice nurse may check these tests a week or so before you see the GP at the diabetes clinic. You will also be asked to bring along a urine sample that has been collected first thing in the morning. This is tested for
- Glucose
- Ketones
- Signs of infection in the urine
- Protein (called microalbumin). High levels of microalbumin are associated with a greater risk of developing some complications of diabetes.
At your first visit, your Height is measured. At every visit, your Weight and Blood Pressure are checked. Your Feet will also be examined at least once a year. This is to find out if your circulation is satisfactory and if the nerves to your feet are working normally. Please wear shoes and socks that allow easy access to your feet.
All of these tests take time but are essential for the doctors and nurses to properly assess you. You may also need to see the Dietitian and have your diet reviewed. The Diabetes Specialist Nurse or Chiropodist (Podiatrist) may also need to see you. Give yourself plenty of time to do all of this.