How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Type 2 Diabetes (Follow-up)

Audience: adult

If you have Type 2 Diabetes, regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are important to manage your condition and prevent complications. Video visits, also called telemedicine or telehealth appointments, allow you to connect with your provider from home or another convenient place. To get the most from your video visit, prepare ahead by gathering your blood sugar records, medication list, and any questions you have. During the visit, you and your provider can discuss your blood sugar control, medication adjustments, lifestyle habits, and any symptoms or concerns. Video visits are a helpful way to maintain your diabetes care, but they may not replace in-person exams or tests completely. If you experience serious symptoms like very high blood sugar, severe pain, or signs of infection, seek urgent medical care. This guide helps you prepare for your Type 2 Diabetes follow-up video visit and understand what to expect.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Very high blood sugar levels (e.g., blood glucose above 300 mg/dL or 16.7 mmol/L) with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or confusion — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe low blood sugar causing fainting, seizures, or inability to eat or drink — get urgent medical help.
• Signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus in wounds or feet, especially if accompanied by fever — contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Routine follow-up discussions about blood sugar control and symptoms.
• Medication review and adjustments based on reported information.
• Lifestyle counseling including diet, exercise, and stress management advice.
• Answering questions about diabetes management and monitoring.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical exams that require hands-on assessment.
• Urgent evaluation of severe symptoms requiring immediate treatment.
• Laboratory tests or imaging studies that need to be done in person.
• Emergency situations such as diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your recent blood sugar readings, medication use, and lifestyle habits. They may ask about any symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or wounds that are slow to heal. Based on this, your provider may suggest changes to your treatment plan or recommend lab tests. The visit is a chance to discuss challenges you face and get advice on diet, exercise, and managing stress.

Gather Important Information Before Your Visit

Prepare a list of your current medications including doses and how often you take them. Have your recent blood sugar logs or readings from your glucose meter ready. Note any new symptoms or changes in your health since your last visit. Write down questions or concerns you want to discuss. Having this information handy helps your provider give you the best care.

Technical Tips for a Smooth Video Visit

Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to a reliable internet connection. Test your camera and microphone ahead of time. Find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted. Log in a few minutes early to address any technical issues. If you have trouble with the video platform, have a phone nearby to switch to a call if needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Video visits are useful for routine follow-up but cannot replace all in-person exams or tests. You should seek urgent medical care if you have symptoms like very high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe infections, or wounds that are worsening. Your provider may also ask you to come in for lab work or physical exams to better manage your diabetes.

Managing Your Diabetes Between Visits

Continue monitoring your blood sugar as advised. Take your medications exactly as prescribed. Follow a healthy diet and stay physically active as recommended. Watch for any new symptoms and report them during your next visit. Keeping good records and staying engaged with your care helps prevent complications.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Gather your blood sugar records since your last visit.
• Make a list of all medications, including doses and schedules.
• Write down any new symptoms or health changes.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to the internet.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.
• Test your camera and microphone before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any medication changes or lifestyle advice given during the visit.
• Schedule any recommended lab tests or in-person exams.
• Monitor your blood sugar regularly and keep records.
• Contact your provider if you notice new or worsening symptoms.
• Plan your next follow-up appointment as advised.

FAQs

Can I get a new prescription during a video visit?

Yes, your provider can often send prescriptions electronically to your pharmacy during a video visit if appropriate. However, some medications may require an in-person visit depending on local regulations and your health status.

What if I have trouble using the video platform?

If you experience technical difficulties, try restarting your device or switching to a different internet connection. Have a phone nearby so you can switch to a phone call if needed. Contact the support number provided by your healthcare provider for help.

How often should I have follow-up visits for Type 2 Diabetes?

Typically, follow-up visits occur every 3 to 6 months, but your provider may recommend more frequent visits based on your blood sugar control and overall health. Regular monitoring helps prevent complications.

Can I discuss other health issues during my diabetes video visit?

Yes, you can mention other health concerns during your visit, but depending on their nature, your provider may suggest a separate appointment to address those fully.

Is a video visit as effective as an in-person visit?

Video visits are effective for many aspects of diabetes management, especially routine follow-up and counseling. However, some assessments and tests require in-person visits. Your provider will guide you on when an in-person visit is necessary.

Sources

1. Diabetes Management — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Type 2 Diabetes — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Diabetes Care: Follow-Up and Monitoring — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telehealth for Diabetes Care — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider and seek urgent care if you experience severe or worsening symptoms.