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(206) 583-6455
What to Expect at Your First Visit
During your first visit at Virginia Mason, your doctor will discuss with you and document information about your condition, including:
- Your medical history, covering your diabetes date of diagnosis, type, previous treatment and diabetes education
- Dietary habits and nutritional information
- Weight history and exercise patterns
- Medications you use to control blood glucose levels as well as those used to treat other conditions
- The status of your current treatment program, with a review of the results of self-blood glucose monitoring, frequency of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar reactions) and episodes of high blood sugar, such as ketoacidosis
- Chronic complications and recommended treatments for problems with infections, eyes, heart, kidneys, nerves, sexual function and poor circulation to the legs and brain
- Risk factors for hardening of the arteries, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and family history
- Psychological and social factors influencing your diabetes care
- A statement of goals of treatment
- A complete list of medications used to treat diabetes, blood pressure, high cholesterol and other conditions
- A referral for an individualized meal plan developed by a dietitian
- Recommended lifestyle changes
- Recommended education by a certified diabetes educator for both you and family members
- Self-blood glucose monitoring instructions and insulin injection instructions, if applicable
- Referral to an eye doctor for an exam if you are over age 30 or if you have had diabetes for five years or more
- For women of childbearing age, a discussion of contraception and care during pregnancy
- A return appointment schedule and instructions on how to contact the doctor or nurse in an emergency