Our survey respondents told us which health-care providers were most helpful in four important areas: diabetes education, symptom recognition, diet and nutrition, and controlling pain and disability. Results underscored the importance of building a comprehensive health-care team, as no single provider topped every category. It also identified the ones who seemed most helpful. Below is a list of the professionals to consider, along with a summary of our respondents' experience.

Primary-care physician 

You need this doctor, usually an internist or family practitioner, to manage your overall health, refer you to other health-care providers, and coordinate your care. And for diabetes, you'll probably need such referrals because our survey found that general-practice doctors were less helpful than specialists when it came to giving detailed advice.

Endocrinologist 

These doctors, who specialize in diabetes and other diseases of the endocrine system, scored near the top in helping patients understand and manage the disease, recognize symptoms, and control pain and disability. People with severe diabetes almost always need one, and others can probably benefit, too.

Certified diabetes educator 

These are usually registered nurses, nurse practitioners, physician's assistants, or registered dietitians with special training in diabetes and could be the most valuable member of your health-care team. Our survey respondents rated them at or near the top in every area, perhaps because they're more likely to have the time it takes to provide detailed advice on self-care, such as how to use your medications, check your blood sugar, watch for symptoms, and improve your health habits.

Registered dietitian 

Dietary changes were important to our successful respondents, and not surprisingly, registered dietitians ranked well above other providers in offering nutritional advice. Look for one who is also a certified diabetes educator who has had special training and experience in diabetes.

Podiatrist 

Because diabetes can interfere with blood flow and cause nerve damage in the feet, people with the disease run a high risk of infection even from seemingly harmless calluses or sores. Our survey confirmed the wisdom of placing a podiatrist, a specialist in foot care, on your health-care team, as respondents rated them among the most helpful in managing pain and disability.

Eye doctor 

Diabetes can damage the blood vessels of the eye, but early treatment can be effective. So everyone with diabetes needs to see an ophthalmologist or an optometrist at least once a year, preferably a provider who often treats diabetes patients. Referral to a retinologist, an ophthalmologist who specializes just in the retina, may also be necessary.

Pharmacist 

Almost all of our respondents told us that they take multiple medications, which increases the likelihood of dangerous drug interactions. Your pharmacist can catch potential problems, counsel you on side effects, and recommend safe over-the-counter products. Try to have all of your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy so that the pharmacist has a complete record of your medications. Also let your pharmacists know what over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements you take.

Dentist

Excess blood sugar creates a hospitable oral environment for bacteria, making people with diabetes prone to infection. So be sure to tell your dentist that you have diabetes and go for checkups twice yearly.

Mental-health professional 

This may be an often-overlooked team member, but our survey found that the disease can exact a heavy emotional toll. One in five respondents reported symptoms of depression and anxiety; that number jumped to one in three for people who were unsuccessful at managing their disease. Depending on your issues, you may want to see a:

• Social worker, who can lead you to resources for medical and financial needs and may be able to help you cope with family or workplace issues related to your condition. Social workers have training in individual, group, and family therapy.
• Clinical psychologist, who can provide short-term counseling during a time of stress or longer-term help with longer-lasting issues.
• Psychiatrist, a medical doctor who can prescribe drugs and also provide counseling.