Type 2 Diabetes
It is estimated that there are approximately 190,000 people in Ireland with diabetes, with type 2 diabetes accounting for approximately 90% of all cases.
Most people with Diabetes can receive optimal Structured Diabetes Care here in the community. We know that with Structured Care, those with Diabetes have a reduced risk of Heart Attacks, Strokes, Kidney Disease, Blindness, Hospital Admissions.
Structured Diabetes care aims to support people with diabetes to achieve a quality of life and life expectancy similar to that of the general population by reducing the complications of diabetes.
Those with Type 2 Diabetes, can be optimally managed by their General Practice Team.
This entails 2 visits every 6 months:
A consultation with the practice nurse is followed 2 weeks later by a consultation with the doctor.
At each nurse visit the patient with diabetes has a comprehensive assessment. They are provided with ongoing diabetes education. Blood and urine samples are taken as needed. Blood pressure and body mass index are updated and the patients’ feet are examined. Any due vaccinations are also offered. €60
Patients are encouraged to also book in for an annual ECG. (tracing of the heart) €30
Patients on medication for hypertension or who are found to have an elevated blood pressure should also book in for a 24 hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor annually. €50
The nurse consultation is followed 2 weeks later by a doctor consultation to review history, examination, and results, modify and issue a repeating prescription as needed in line with best practice and in consultation with patient objectives. €60
As needed, there will be onward referral to allied health professionals (Podiatry, Dietetics, Smoking cessation, Structured Education Programme, Retinal Screening, Exercise programme) or if appropriate, to specialist hospital-based services.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Typical Frequency of Visits and Investigations:
Practice Nurse diabetes appointment every 6 months and 2 weeks before GP appointments: €60
Blood tests – (no need to fast) every 4 – 6 months (HbA1C, lipids, renal, FBC) (additional liver, thyroid, haematinics annually)
Urine test– every 4-6 months (protein check), (ask for yellow ACR urine specimen jar on arrival at reception)
Biometrics – Weight, height, waist measurements, Blood Pressure
Foot examination
Vaccinations –Flu vaccination – annually, covid vaccination as per current guidance (evolving)
Pneumococcal vaccination – every 5 years until 65 years. Once only after age 65 years
Referrals – structured education, retinal screening as needed
Additional annual checks:
24 hour blood pressure monitor – annually if blood pressure elevated or on blood pressure medication €50
ECG – annually €30
Doctor appointments (2 weeks after nurse appointment) every 6 months €60
Review results, address any diabetes related concerns, modify and issue repeat prescription, onward referral if needed.
Please note: Appointments regarding unrelated conditions should be made separately.
Reviewed June 2023