Care and treatment for type 2 diabetes
Here people tell us about their experiences of care and treatment for type 2 diabetes. Diabetes care in the NHS is provided mainly by GPs....
Information about diabetes came from a variety of sources including hospital consultants and nurses, GPs, practice nurses who ran diabetes clinics, dietitians, friends and relatives, support groups, radio and television, books, leaflets, and the internet. Several people emphasised the usefulness of talking to others with diabetes and sharing experiences.
People had different approaches to finding information; some were pro-active and wanted to know as much as possible, many others looked no further than their GP and/or diabetes nurse for information. Several people said they wanted information provided in a form that met their needs.
The amount of detail people wanted also varied; some were satisfied with basic information which gave them enough knowledge to understand and manage their condition; others did extensive research and read widely.
Internet use varied enormously. Some routinely checked websites they knew and trusted for new information, others had searched the internet using simple search terms such as ‘diabetes and diet’ and had found themselves directed to medical sites that seemed inappropriate for their needs.
Many people found it helpful to supplement the basic information they had been given by reading pamphlets, books, or magazines. A popular source of information was Balance magazine published by Diabetes UK which includes information about new research, products, and lifestyle issues. One woman said that she regularly visited various US websites and blogs where people published alternative diets and methods of controlling diabetes that are not recommended by Diabetes UK.
Support groups were not necessarily for everyone, but for some had proved to be a welcome source of information and support.
Several others who had not been to a support group wished that they were available in their area. Some people thought that a local support group would be good for meeting others and being able to discuss feelings.
Support groups were seen by some people as being for older people or those who had only recently been diagnosed. Despite all the information available, practical questions occasionally remained unanswered. One man had been amazed to discover that there was no clear information available on how to dispose of sharps (needles). Information is now available from Diabetes UK.
Here people tell us about their experiences of care and treatment for type 2 diabetes. Diabetes care in the NHS is provided mainly by GPs....
Controlling the symptoms of diabetes and managing the condition well, whether you are taking medication or not, means eating carefully and healthily. Some people said...