Nurses Clinic

Weekly on Wednesdays from 12.30pm – 4.30pm at Maketu Health & Social Services

Your Annual Diabetes Review

All people with diabetes are entitled to a free annual check by their GP or Practice Nurse. Your annual review is to enable you to lead a normal and healthy life. It must be about what you want and need as well as what your healthcare professionals recommend.

Those that have Diabetes and are registered with Waitaha Medical Centre who live in Maketu may have their Annual Diabetes Review done here at Maketu Health & Social Services.

The following laboratory tests should be part of your annual review:

·         Blood glucose control: an HbA1c blood test will measure your long term blood glucose control.

·         Kidney function: urine and blood tests to check for protein will show that your kidneys are working correctly. There should not be any protein in your urine.

·         Blood fats (lipids, cholesterol and triglyceride levels): a blood test that measures your blood fat levels.

What is normal ranges from person to person. If you have any questions, ask your diabetes healthcare team to explain.

Blood pressure should be taken. Keeping your blood pressure down is important for people with diabetes. If it is at higher levels than considered appropriate, then this should be discussed with your diabetes healthcare team.

Weight is often calculated as a Body Mass Index (BMI) and your GP will record this. You will be advised if you need to lose weight to better control your diabetes. 

Feet should be examined to check your skin, circulation and nerve supply. If necessary, you should be referred to a podiatrist.

An eye examintion at least every two years, where your pupils are dilated, will assist your optometrist/ophthalmologist to detect any early changes in the back of the eyes (retinopathy). Photographs will be taken to record the appearance at the back of your eyes.

The annual review should also provide sufficient time to discuss:

·         Your general wellbeing and how you are coping with your diabetes at home, work, school or tertiary institution.

·         Your current treatment.

·         Your diabetes control, including yourself monitoring results.

• Any problems you may be having.

It should include discussion about smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, sexual problems, physical activity and healthy eating issues. You should feel free to raise any or all of these issues with your diabetes healthcare team.