Things for you or your health care provider to do at least once or twice a year

Hemoglobin A-1-c lab test

Have this blood test at least twice a year. This will tell you what your average blood sugar level was for the past 3 months.

Blood lipid (fats) labs tests

Get a blood test to check your

Cholesterol--aim for less than 200.
LDL--aim for less than 130.
HDL--men should aim for more than 35; women should aim for more than 45.
Triglycerides--aim for less than 200.
These test results will help you plan now to prevent heart attack and stroke.

Kidney lab tests

Ask for tests to check your urine for protein and your blood for end products of protein breakdown. The results will tell you how well your kidneys are working.

Dilated eye exam

See your eye doctor once a year because a doctor can detect eye problems before you notice anything wrong.

Dental exam

See your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

Flu shot

Get a flu shot each year because the flu in someone with diabetes can be very serious.