My endo has recommended new medications, some so new that they weren’t even licensed yet where I live. He has made useful remarks about the advantages and disadvantages of various treatments. Sometimes he has simply told me once again what I already know, which can be important.
(There is a famous book about proper behaviour written by a rabbi about 300 years ago which says in its introduction, more or less: ‘Everything which you will read in this book you already know.’).
I agree with TEDO. My endo asks the same questions; what are you eating, exercise, insulin ratio, stress level, weight, etc. No real recommendations or advice. A1C 6.8 and would like to get it down to 6.5 or less. Problem is slower digestion and splitting insulin doses MDI. Endo has no probiotic recommendations or other treatment options. Telemedicine visits very brief…15min at most. Seems like not a thorough medical visit. Frustrating
So my Endo doesn’t do much, but I will say the longer I go between apps the worse my control is. It’s so weird and I can’t really put my finger on it, but I try and go as often as my insurance allows. Also, I do have antibodies for Thyroid so I like to have those labs done regularly and checked. Also, I’m 40 and my kids are old. I don’t go to the doctor ( its been YEARS since I’ve been to my primary) and I kind of feel like this at least keeps me a little honest if something were to come up medical even if it’s not diabetes related.
I only used Endo back in 1994 to get started on pump. Since moving from Texas to Washington state, only use GP or Internist. They refill my Rx.
I keep my A1C < 6.2 and have regular eye exams. Normal doctors are fine for me, but I don’t have any questions or issues. i don’t use CGM too $$ and I had problems with Minimed Guardian and went back to 4-6 finger sticks a day.
Tedos, I think you hit a nerve here with us!!! LOL… That’s a great question!!! I am in the market to find a new Endo. I am not too optimistic after reading most of these posts.
Yeah it’s a mixed bag unfortunately. And I think it also depends on how comfortable you are with making decision on adjusting your insulin dosage as well. I adjust myself and have been doing it from day one. That’s probably one reason why I don’t think they add any value and I think most people who have commented above that they too don’t find much value are in the same boat. But at the end of the day, I haven’t found one that gives me any new insight. But if you are newly diagnosed, I think you definitely need to see one to steer you on the right track and get the hang of things, it can be quite daunting with a new disease.
After 54 years with T1, and last 25 years with AiC’s under 7, I dont have much need for an endo.
HOWEVER.
Ive been lucky to not have any major complications (just some retinopathy) but should the time come I develop complications, I want an endo who knows my body in a healthy state before trying to figure what my issues are and treating them. IMHO thats VERY important.
I love my endo. She got into endocrinology because her sister was type 1. She really takes the time to answer my questions, reviews my Dexcom history and is always quick to respond to messages I send on the endo-office e-mail.
hi Sarah. My name is Al Olmstead and I have been a diabetic for over 50 years and have gone to the Joslin for about 48 of those years. I have seen 8 drs 2 nurse practitioner. They all have the mindset they know what’s best for YOU, which we both know is bs. You and me think alike I told this Jenny Votta np you and the Joslin are tools for scripts that’s all I need She did not like that and said you should move on I guess to greener pastures. But as you said YOU HAVE TO PLAY THE GAME (use the tools to get what you need) Oh well it is never easy. Al
It seems like their the same the world over in and out and they don’t tell you anything new that you don’t already know. Diabetic care is 90% in YOUR HANDS. You are the one to make informed choices for your self. But with that said you have to play the game. Use the tools to get your scripts and what ever else you need. YOU ARE IN CHARGE OF YOURSELF AND YOUR HEALTH. Al
