Living with diabetes? Make a face-to-face appointment with a diabetes educator closest to you!
We understand that living with diabetes can be tough for you and your family. It's not just about taking medicine, it's about changing your lifestyle, and that's a big deal. But don't worry, you're not alone. At Discovery Health Medical Scheme, we're here to help you every step of the way.
We offer you two sessions every year with a specially trained diabetes educator to help you further understand and manage your condition. These professionals are nurses, dieticians or pharmacists who have had extra, specialised training in diabetes care.
They'll explain all about diabetes, how to keep an eye on your blood sugar, and what to do if it gets too high or too low. They'll also give you tips on how to balance your diet to keep your blood sugar steady, and how to fit exercise into your daily routine. Plus, they can help you deal with the emotional side of living with a long-term condition.
What does a diabetes educator focus on?
Here's what you can expect from your diabetes educator:
- They'll teach you how your diabetes medicine works and how to take it properly.
- They'll show you how to keep your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible.
- They'll help you set goals for regular exercise and healthy eating.
- They'll give you tips on how to plan your day-to-day activities and even holidays around your diabetes.
- They'll even teach your family how to support you.
Who is eligible for diabetes education sessions?
As a Discovery Health Medical Scheme member, you can have two sessions a year with a diabetes educator, and we'll cover the cost. This is available to adults on all plans who are registered on the Chronic Illness Benefit for either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
If you are on a KeyCare or Smart plan, make sure you choose a Premier Plus GP who is in your plan's network.
For more information and plan-specific details, visit the Diabetes Care Programme benefit page.
Where does the diabetes educator fit into my healthcare team?
Your diabetes educator is a key part of your healthcare team. They give detailed education on diabetes management that there might not be time for during your normal GP or specialist consultations. The diabetes educator and help you to understand and follow the treatment plan your doctor prescribed.
Where can I find a diabetes educator?
You can find a diabetes educator in a pharmacy clinic that is part of our Diabetes Clinic Network. Click on a picture below and we'll help you book.
But that's not all ...
Access extra cover and support in managing your diabetes
Your cover for diabetes management and treatment starts when you register for the Chronic Illness Benefit. However, you can get even more cover and support if you visit a Premier Plus GP and they enrol you on the Diabetes Care Programme.
Once you join the Diabetes Care Programme, we pay for these extra benefits without using your day-to-day benefits:
- One extra consultation with a dietitian a year
- One consultation with a biokineticist a year
- One diabetic retinopathy screening
- Note: The diabetic retinopathy screening programme is available to all members who are registered on the Chronic Illness Benefit for diabetes, not only members on the Diabetes Care Programme.