How to prepare for a video visit about Type 2 Diabetes (Follow-up)

Audience: pediatric

If your child has Type 2 Diabetes, follow-up video visits with a healthcare provider help keep their condition under control. These visits often include reviewing blood sugar levels, discussing medicines, and checking for any new symptoms. Preparing well can make the visit smoother and more helpful. Make sure you have recent blood sugar readings, a list of medicines, and any questions ready. Video visits let you connect with the doctor safely from home, but they cannot replace all in-person exams or tests. If your child has serious symptoms like very high blood sugar or confusion, seek emergency care. This guide helps you get ready for a telemedicine visit about Type 2 Diabetes in children, so you can work with your care team to manage the condition well.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Blood sugar levels consistently above 300 mg/dL (16.7 mmol/L) or very low below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) — seek urgent medical care.
• Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis such as vomiting, stomach pain, rapid breathing, or confusion — go to emergency care immediately.
• Severe dehydration, confusion, or loss of consciousness — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing blood sugar logs and medication adherence.
• Discussing lifestyle habits like diet and exercise.
• Answering questions about diabetes management.
• Providing guidance on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams.
• Conducting lab tests or blood draws.
• Managing diabetic emergencies like ketoacidosis.
• Adjusting complex medication regimens without in-person assessment.

What to expect during the video visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's blood sugar levels, medicines, diet, and any symptoms. They may review recent test results and talk about lifestyle habits like exercise. You can ask questions about managing diabetes and any concerns you have. The provider cannot do a physical exam but can guide you on what to watch for and when to get in-person care.

Gather important information beforehand

Before the visit, collect recent blood sugar readings, a list of all medicines your child takes (including doses), and any notes about symptoms or side effects. Write down questions or worries you want to discuss. Having this information ready helps the visit go smoothly and ensures important details are not missed.

Prepare your technology and environment

Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to a reliable internet. Test the video and audio functions ahead of time. Choose a quiet, well-lit place for the visit where you will not be interrupted. Have your child's medical records or notes nearby for reference.

When to seek urgent or emergency care

If your child shows signs like very high blood sugar (often above 300 mg/dL or 16.7 mmol/L), difficulty breathing, confusion, severe stomach pain, or vomiting, seek emergency care immediately. These symptoms may indicate serious complications that need in-person treatment. Telemedicine visits are not for emergencies.

How to follow up after the visit

After the video visit, follow the provider's advice about medicines, diet, and monitoring blood sugar. Schedule any recommended lab tests or in-person visits. Keep track of symptoms and report any changes. Contact your healthcare team if you have new concerns before the next scheduled visit.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Collect recent blood sugar readings and notes.
• List all current medications with doses.
• Write down questions or concerns to discuss.
• Charge and test your device's video and audio.
• Choose a quiet, private space for the visit.
• Have medical records or notes accessible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on medicines and lifestyle.
• Schedule any recommended lab tests or in-person visits.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and blood sugar levels.
• Contact your healthcare team if new issues arise.
• Keep a record of follow-up appointments and instructions.

FAQs

Can a video visit replace all in-person diabetes check-ups?

Video visits can help with many parts of diabetes care, like reviewing blood sugar and medicines. However, some exams and tests need to be done in person. Your healthcare provider will tell you when an in-person visit is necessary.

What should I do if my child's blood sugar is very high or low during the video visit?

If blood sugar is very high or low, tell the healthcare provider during the visit. If it is dangerously high or low, or if your child has symptoms like confusion or vomiting, seek emergency care immediately instead of waiting for the video visit.

How can I help my child prepare for a video visit?

Explain to your child what to expect and encourage them to share how they feel. Have their blood sugar readings and medicines ready. Make the environment comfortable and free from distractions to help them focus during the visit.

What technology do I need for a video visit?

You will need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone, plus a reliable internet connection. Test your device before the visit to ensure video and sound work well.

Sources

1. Type 2 Diabetes in Children and Teens — Mayo Clinic.
2. Diabetes Care in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Managing Diabetes — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Type 2 Diabetes — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

This educational content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine visits can support diabetes management but are not a substitute for in-person care when needed. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and seek emergency care for urgent symptoms.