Diabetes can be managed by carefully monitoring some key indicators for each

individual. NICE recommends that people with diabetes undertake nine annual
health checks. It is vital that people with diabetes receive all nine of these key
health tests and measures. These checks help to monitor and manage their
condition as well as reduce the risk of complications such as stroke, heart
disease and amputations. The nine annual health checks for people with
diabetes are:

 weight and body mass index measurements

 blood pressure
 smoking status
 blood test (HbA1c – blood glucose levels)
 urinary albumin test (or protein test to measure the kidney function)
 serum creatinine test (creatinine is an indicator for renal function)
 cholesterol levels
 eye check (retinopathy screening)
 feet check.
In addition to the nine annual health checks, Diabetes UK has identified '15
Healthcare Essentials'. These have been highlighted so that people with
diabetes and health care workers know what care people with diabetes should
expect. These 'Healthcare Essentials' should also be undertaken annually or as
required in the case of specialist care needs. The '15 Healthcare Essentials'
can be considered under four categories of:

 blood tests
 physical checks
 advice and support
 specialist care.