Who's team are you on? Introducing the diabetes professionals here to help you.
Introducing your diabetes care team so you can learn about the many professionals who can help you understand and manage your blood glucose.
Getting diagnosed with diabetes can and often is overwhelming. There is a lot to learn, and because diabetes is a serious condition, you likely feel a sense of urgency. While it is easy to say slow down and relax, it is a lot harder to do, especially if you have been referred to a number of specialists. This article reviews who and why you might see other professionals and how they can help you going forward.
Primary Care Physician (PCP)
Often, the first person you see upon being diagnosed is your Primary Care Physician. They manage your overall health and can treat a variety of conditions, from routine checkups to acute illnesses. For diabetes:
Why They Help: They track your health trends over time—think of them as the “orchestra conductor” who coordinates the rest of your healthcare team.
Pros: They know your medical history best and can refer you to specialists. They’re also more accessible for urgent questions.
Cons: PCPs may have limited time per appointment, and while many are comfortable managing diabetes, they may not have an in-depth focus if your diabetes is complex.
Endocrinologist/Advance Diabetes Practitioner
Suppose your PCP feels you need more specialized attention. In that case, they’ll likely refer you to an Endocrinologist/Advanced Diabetes Practitioner—a provider who focuses on hormones, including insulin and may prescribe you other medication or technology to make it easier to manage your blood glucose.
Why They Help: They can dig deep into your blood sugar patterns, adjust medications precisely, and watch for related hormone issues (e.g., thyroid).
Pros: They often have cutting-edge insights on diabetes, from advanced insulin pumps to CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) technology.
Cons: Endocrinology appointments might involve long wait times or be located in larger hospital systems, which can be inconvenient if you live far away.
Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN)
When you think about lifestyle changes, nutrition is typically top of mind. A Registered Dietitian is trained to give personalized meal advice.
What They Offer: Tailored meal planning, grocery list suggestions, strategies for eating out, blood sugar-friendly snacks, and practical ways to align your food choices with your personal preferences and culture.
Pros: RDs keep up with evidence-based nutrition—no crash diets, just sensible, sustainable suggestions that fit your life. Online nutrition services, like Nourish can make it easier to see a registered dietitian.
Cons: Insurance coverage can vary; some plans might limit the number of sessions. You can check with your insurance to verify coverage of Medical Nutrition Therapy. Even if your coverage is limited having a few visits is extremely helpful.
Diabetes Care & Education Specialist (CDCES)
Formerly called a “Certified Diabetes Educator,” a CDCES could be a nurse, pharmacist, or dietitian with additional certification to support people with diabetes.
Why They Help: They can coach you on self-monitoring, medication management, lifestyle tweaks, and emotional coping strategies.
Pros: They understand the day-to-day realities of living with diabetes—like dealing with blood sugar fluctuations during exercise or travel. They may offer classes or one-on-one sessions. Many CDCES are also registered dietitians which means your nutrition counseling can also be focused on your overall diabetes management. Nourish has many RD, CDCES that you can meet with from the comfort of your own home, often with zero copay.
Cons: Not every clinic has a CDCES on staff. You may be able to attend group education sessions, which can give you an overview of diabetes.
Pharmacist
You might not immediately think of your Pharmacist as a care team member, but they’re a valuable resource, too.
Why They Help: They ensure you’re taking medications correctly, can spot potential drug interactions, and provide tips on how to store insulin.
Pros: Generally easy to access—you can ask quick questions about side effects or insurance coverage.
Cons: They typically can’t spend long periods discussing broader lifestyle topics, and not all pharmacists provide in-depth counseling on nutrition or exercise.
Additional Professionals to Consider
Mental Health Counselor / Therapist
Why: Living with diabetes can be emotionally challenging. A therapist or counselor can provide coping strategies, especially if you’re dealing with stress, burnout, or emotional eating.
Exercise Physiologist / Fitness Trainer
Why: They can help design a movement plan that’s safe and enjoyable, taking into account your blood sugar patterns and any physical limitations.
Social Worker or Case Manager
Why: They assist with logistical barriers—like finding transportation to appointments, accessing financial aid or community programs, and coordinating care if you have multiple health challenges.
Ophthalmologist / Eye Specialist
Why: Diabetes can affect your eyes, so regular checkups can catch any issues (like retinopathy) early.
Podiatrist
Why: Foot care is crucial. A podiatrist checks for numbness, sores, or infections that can arise if blood sugar is not well-managed.
Getting the support you need.
As someone newly diagnosed with diabetes, you have a team of professionals ready to guide you—each bringing unique expertise. While your PCP anchors your overall health journey, an Endocrinologist offers deeper diabetes specialization, a Registered Dietitian helps reshape nutrition habits, a CDCES provides day-to-day diabetes management strategies, and a Pharmacist ensures your meds are working properly.
Additional professionals like mental health counselors, social workers, and exercise physiologists can round out your support system, especially if you face emotional or practical barriers. Ultimately, assembling the right mix of healthcare allies can make a big difference in how empowered you feel managing diabetes—because every dimension of your life matters, not just your blood sugar readings.
Facing prediabetes or diabetes can be daunting, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by doctors’ appointments, dietary changes, and the worry of “Am I doing enough?” Traditional diet-centric care may leave you frustrated—especially if weight loss is presented as the cure-all. Instead, consider a refreshing alternative with Megrette Fletcher at Nourish:
She’s a Registered Dietitian and CDCES, so you get both robust clinical expertise and empathetic support.
She transcends the typical RD approach by anchoring care in mindful eating, non-diet philosophies, and psychological well-being.
She ensures you’re not alone in this journey—backing every suggestion with compassion, understanding, and practical strategies that truly fit your life.
No Weight Loss Required Newsletter Here, you’ll find free articles, practical tips, and deep dives about motivation and self-compassion by using a weight-inclusive approach to diabetes care.