Navigating type 1 diabetes management can feel overwhelming, especially when you're bombarded with medical jargon and conflicting advice. In this blog post, we break down key insights from a candid Juicebox Podcast episode where experts shared practical tips on building and leveraging your medical team. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years, this comprehensive list will empower you to advocate for yourself, improve communication with your healthcare providers, and ultimately take control of your diabetes journey.

Building Your Medical Team

• Assemble a team that includes an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, nurse practitioner/physician assistant, and other support (social workers, child life specialists).

1. Finding the Right Doctor

   • Seek out a doctor who listens to your concerns rather than dismissing them.

   • Interview potential doctors (by phone or in person) to gauge if they have experience with type 1 diabetes.

   • Do your homework on whether the doctor or practice specializes in type 1 diabetes, especially if you’re newly diagnosed or live in a rural area.

2. Effective Communication with Clinicians

   • Be proactive in asking questions and voicing when you don’t understand medical terminology.

   • Don’t hesitate to request clarification on diabetes-related language such as “basal,” “bolus,” “MDI,” “algorithms,” etc.

   • Explain your own experiences and share data (like blood sugar logs or pump settings) to help guide adjustments.

   • Understand that appointments may be short; prioritize your most pressing questions and topics ahead of time.

3. Being an Active Team Member

   • Recognize that you are part of your care team—not just a passive recipient.

   • Advocate for yourself and trust your own observations (for example, knowing when your insulin or carb ratios need adjustment).

   • Accept that there will be a learning curve; sometimes you’ll know more about your diabetes management than your clinician does because you live with it every day.

4. Managing Insulin and Diabetes Technology

   • Learn the basics about insulin dosing, including how to adjust basal and bolus settings.

   • Understand that adjustments may require experimentation and that your feedback can guide better treatment.

   • Use educational resources (such as the “Defining Diabetes” series) to better understand insulin management terminology and concepts.

5. Dealing with Conflicting Information

   • Be aware that different providers—even within the same practice—might offer conflicting advice.

   • Work to reconcile conflicting pieces of information by asking follow‐up questions or seeking additional opinions.

6. Handling Scare Tactics and Conservative Guidance

   • Avoid doctors who use scare tactics (e.g., warning of extreme consequences like amputation for not eliminating carbs).

   • Choose a clinician who is willing to educate rather than intimidate, and who can adapt guidance based on your personal diabetes management journey.

7. Leveraging External Resources and Community

   • Utilize community resources such as the Juicebox Podcast Facebook group for support and shared experiences.

   • Take advantage of online resources (e.g., Juicebox Docs) that can help you find good doctors and further educate yourself.

8. Self-Advocacy and Persistence

   • Trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right with your treatment.

   • Be persistent in pursuing second opinions or additional help if your current provider isn’t meeting your needs.

   • Recognize that you may need to “push back” (respectfully) to get the care you deserve.

9. Understanding the Limitations of Healthcare Providers

   • Accept that many primary care doctors or pediatricians might not be experts in diabetes management.

   • Understand that even specialized endocrinologists may not always have time or the complete personal perspective on living with diabetes.

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