In our diabetes clinic, we aim to control the disease by either preventing or minimising symptoms. Patients on our diabetes register benefit from a call and recall system which has oversight by the doctor and trained nurses. When problems arise we arrange access to a chiropodist and a retinal screening programme.

Patients with type 1 diabetes attend a clinic at the hospital, whilst patients with type 2 diabetes may attend either the practice clinic or the hospital clinic - or both. Regardless, both hospital and practice clinics provide all reviews and routine care.

Physical examinations are conducted in our diabetes clinic. Height & weight checks are included. From this, we calculate body mass index (BMI) which should be between 20 and 25.  Blood pressure is also checked.  Patients are advised of a target for their individual situation. A normal BP would be around 120/80.

To check skin and sensation, we conduct foot examinations. Digital retinal photography is used to check eyes.  A special unit visits the practice so patients can be seen  at their own surgery where that is where they are being monitored.

Patients are asked to look at a reading chart and drops are inserted into the eye to enlarge pupils. The effect of the drops can last up to two hours so it is unsafe to drive until the effect of the drops has worn off. Where a patient is on insulin, the site of the injections is checked.

Laboratory tests are undertaken from time to time - including haemaglobin (HbA1c) monitioring. This allows diabetes control to be monitored. Creatinine and eGFR are also checked to see how well kidneys are performing.

A lipid profile is also obtained.  Liver function tests are also undertaken  to monitor fat deposition and ensure that this is not upsetting the liver.

Urine samples allow microalbumin to be monitored so that complications of diabetes can be avoided.

Where possible, tests are carried out before appointments so that the results are available at the review where general well-being, current treatment, diabetes control and any problems arising are discussed.

Patients with Type 1 diabetes attend a hospital clinic, whilst patients who have type 2 diabetes may attend either our practice clinic or the hospital - or both.  Both the hospital and the practice clinics provide all reviews and routine care.

Referrals to podiatrist or dietitian are also considered, where required. Details of diabetes clinics can be obtained from our reception.

• We strongly advise all diabetic patients to have an annual flu jab and also to be immunised against pneumococcus - a type of pneumonia
• Diabetes patients should attend the clinic at least once a year - or more frequently if their condition dictates
• Diabetic patients may be referred to a chiropodist, dietitian or or optician for more specialist information on aspects of their care.