What is a diabetologist?

A diabetologist is a doctor who specialises in the treatment of diabetes.

What’s the difference between a diabetologist and endochronoligist?

Diabetologists are generally endocrinologists with a special interest in diabetes.

What medical conditions do diabetologists treat?

• Diabetes Type I
• Diabetes Type II
• Complications of diabetes

Treatment for diabetes

Treatment of diabetes usually involves a multidisciplinary team.

The diabetologist coordinates diabetic educators, nurses, podiatrists, ophthalmologists and renal physicians to educate, treat and monitor a patient.

Treatment usually involves medications either orally or insulin injections.

What to expect at your first visit with a diabetologist

History

Your diabetologist will ask about your diabetes in detail. They will ask about:

• Current symptoms
• Duration of illness
• Complications of diabetes
• Level of control you have had
• Other illnesses
• Medications
• Allergies
• Social history

Examination

Your diabetologist will perform a general examination but will particularly focus on searching for complications related to your diabetes.

These generally involve the cardiovascular system (heart and blood vessels), the eyes (retinal vessels), kidneys and nerves.

Specialty areas of interest

• Paediatric diabetes

Associated tests

• Blood tests
• Blood glucose measurement
• Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C)
• Urine protein collection
• Fluorescein retinal angiography

Training and qualifications

• Basic medical training
• Internship
• Residency
• Specialty Training

Links

• Find a Diabetologist
• Diabetes Australia
• Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
• Wikipedia – Diabetology

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.