Diabetes Education and Research Center
Tips for Managing your Diabetes
Frequency of Doctor Visits
You will need to see your doctor weekly or every two weeks when you are first diagnosed or as your new medication schedule is being tailored. More frequent contact may be required if you are undergoing intensive insulin therapy.
At a minimum, you should plan on seeing your doctor every 3 months if you are being treated with insulin, or every 6 months otherwise. Semiannual visits should occur to arrange for necessary eye, kidney, and foot check-ups. Dental check-ups should also be scheduled at least every 6 months.
Frequency of doctor visits will depend on a number of factors:
- Type of diabetes
- Blood glucose goals and the degree to which they are achieved
- Changes in treatment
- Presence of diabetic complications
- Other medical conditions
You and your physician should consider these factors when you decide on a schedule.
Tip: Make notations on a yearly calendar to remind yourself when to schedule your appointments.
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