As coverage differs between plans, please check your Table of Benefits to confirm whether the Physician and Specialist Fees benefits are included in your plan. To view your Table of Benefits, simply login to MyHealth (app or portal). Once logged in, click on 'My Benefits' to view all benefits included in your plan. You can also consult your Benefits Guide available on the Home page of the MyHealth, simply click on 'View Policy' and then go to 'Documents'. 

Taking proactive steps to manage your health can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Understanding the preventive measures available to you is an important first step toward long-term wellbeing.

Key risk factors include a family history of diabetes, being overweight or obese, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, high blood pressure, and age (particularly over 45). Certain ethnic groups may also have a higher predisposition. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet can help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. Choose high-fibre carbohydrates, such as whole grains, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables, and consider portion sizes to support healthy glucose and glycemic control. Limit sugary drinks, sweets, refined carbohydrates such as white bread and pastries, and highly processed foods that are high in added sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats. A balanced approach, along with stress management, can support your overall health and wellbeing. For diabetes friendly recipes, please check our diabetes recipe book

Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, limiting processed foods, and managing stress can all significantly reduce your risk.

Yes, regular health check-ups and blood glucose screenings are recommended, especially if you have one or more risk factors. Regular health and wellbeing checks, included in many of our out-patient plans, can identify warning signs such as cardiovascular issues, kidney problems, or nerve damage before they become serious, allowing for timely intervention. As coverage varies across plans, please refer to your Table of Benefits to confirm if Health and Wellbeing checks are included in your cover. To view your Table of Benefits, simply login to MyHealth (app or portal). Once logged in, click on 'My Benefits' to view all benefits included in your plan. You can also consult your Benefits Guide available on the Home page of the MyHealth, simply click on 'View Policy' and then go to 'Documents'. 

Reducing your sugar intake is one of the most effective lifestyle changes you can make to support overall health, helping to lower the risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

Health guidelines generally recommend that adults consume no more than 30g of free sugars per day (approximately 7 sugar cubes). Children should consume less depending on their age.

Blood glucose targets can vary depending on your treatment, age, health, pregnancy status, and risk of hypoglycemia. Your healthcare professional should agree personal goals with you. As a general guide for many adults with type 2 diabetes, a pre-meal or fasting blood glucose target may be around 4–7 mmol/L. A commonly used target two hours after a meal may be below 8.5 mmol/L, although your own goal may be different. Keep fasting, pre-meal, and after-meal readings separate when recording your blood sugar levels.

HbA1c is a blood test that shows your average glucose level over the previous two to three months. In UK guidance, results are commonly interpreted as follows:

• Below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%): usually considered within the non-diabetes range.
•  42–47 mmol/mol (6.0–6.4%): higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, sometimes described as non-diabetic hyperglycemia or prediabetes. 
• 48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or above: may indicate diabetes.

A commonly used HbA1c goal for many adults with type 2 diabetes is 48 mmol/mol (6.5%) if managed through lifestyle changes or a medicine that does not usually cause hypoglycemia. A less strict goal, such as 53 mmol/mol (7.0%), may be appropriate for some people. Your healthcare professional will set goals that reflect your needs and treatment. Do not change medicines or treatment targets without medical advice.

An HbA1c result alone does not always confirm a diagnosis. A clinician will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the testing method, and may repeat the test or arrange another appropriate test. If you have symptoms of very high or low glucose, including confusion, fainting, or difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical help.

Many of our plans cover a range of prescribed medical aids that are essential for diabetes management, including insulin pumps, glucose meters, and other medically necessary devices. As coverage varies by plan, we recommend checking your Table of Benefits to confirm what's included in your specific policy. To view your Table of Benefits, simply login to MyHealth (app or portal). Once logged in, click on 'My Benefits' to view all benefits included in your plan. You can also consult your Benefits Guide available on the Home page of the MyHealth, simply click on 'View Policy' and then go to 'Documents'. 

Common signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and in some cases, fruity-smelling breath. If you notice these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Work with your child's school to create a diabetes management plan, ensure staff are trained to recognise symptoms, provide necessary supplies, and maintain open communication between teachers, school nurses, and your child's healthcare team.

Type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented. However, the risk of Type 2 diabetes in children can be reduced through encouraging regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting screen time and sugary snacks.