Many diabetic patients attend regular follow-up appointments but often feel rushed, unable to fully express their concerns or ask all their questions, leaving with lingering doubts. In fact, a medical consultation is not just about the doctor prescribing medication; it is also an opportunity forCrucial Doctor-Patient Collaboration。


As the attending physician, Director Ren Shuhong said that her greatest wish is to work with people with diabetes to achieve optimal management of their condition. The key to achieving this goal lies inHonest, efficient, and prepared communication。


Today, Director Ren Shuhong has outlined the most important questions for diabetes patients to consult during their medical visitsGolden Eight QuestionsBringing these questions along allows individuals with diabetes to maximize the value of their brief consultation, identify the right direction, and achieve stable blood sugar control.

Directional Questions:

Is my goal reasonable?

Treatment is like sailing, where the direction must first be clear. Director Ren Shuhong points out that blood sugar control goals are not fixed but need to be tailored specifically for you.

1. Should blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin targets be adjusted?

The general standard is a glycated hemoglobin level below 7%, but this may be too low for young, healthy patients and too strict for elderly patients or those with severe complications. Your target should be established comprehensively based on factors such as age, disease duration, and complication status. You can directly ask: "Doctor, considering my current physical condition, what do you think is the most appropriate range for my blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels?"

2. What should the target levels be for blood pressure, cholesterol, and other indicators?

Diabetes often coexists with hypertension and dyslipidemia. According to the latest guidelines, most patients should maintain blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg, and lipid levels must also be strictly controlled. However, specific target values may need adjustment for your individual case. Be sure to ask: "Besides blood sugar, what should my target ranges be for blood pressure and lipids?"

Monitoring Questions:

Is my "Zhenda" sensitive?

Director Ren Shuhong emphasized that precise monitoring serves as the basis for adjusting treatment plans, and ensuring the proper functioning of our "radar" system is crucial.

3. Is my blood glucose monitoring frequency sufficient?

If lifestyle interventions alone or medications less likely to cause hypoglycemia are used, frequent daily finger pricks may not be necessary. However, if insulin or sulfonylureas are part of the treatment, regular blood glucose monitoring serves as a safety baseline. Please be sure to confirm: "Given my current treatment plan, how many times a day should I measure my blood glucose? At which time points would measurements be most meaningful?"

4. Is it necessary to monitor diabetes-related complications?

Diabetic complications (eye, kidney, nerve, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular, etc.) are often silent in their early stages. Proactively asking, "Based on my current condition, which complication screenings should I prioritize this year? For example, fundus examination, urine microalbumin test, or neuropathy check?" can help us detect and intervene early.

Between the Plans:

What is my next step?

Treatment is a dynamic process, and Director Ren Shuhong reminds patients with diabetes to clarify the follow-up plan at each follow-up visit.

5. When should I schedule my next follow-up appointment? What tests should I have done?

This is the most practical yet most easily overlooked issue. Tests such as glycated hemoglobin, liver and kidney function, and blood lipids all have their own cycles. Before leaving, be sure to confirm: "Doctor, when should we schedule our next appointment? What tests do I need to complete in advance before coming?"

6. Does my dietary advice need optimization?

"Taking medication on time but blood sugar remains high" is often related to dietary details. If you have specific conditions such as weight loss, muscle gain, or special circumstances like kidney disease, general dietary advice may not be sufficient. You can ask: "Given my current weight and blood sugar fluctuation patterns, are there any specific adjustments needed in my diet? Is it necessary to schedule an appointment with the nutrition department for detailed guidance?"

The Mind-Body Inquiry:

What factors are holding back progress

Blood sugar management often requires efforts beyond just focusing on sugar itself. Some underlying factors are frequently overlooked yet have a significant impact.

7. How can I improve my sleep?

Insufficient sleep elevates stress hormones, directly raising blood sugar levels. Particular attention should be paid to "sleep apnea," which is extremely common among individuals with diabetes but has a high rate of underdiagnosis. If you experience snoring or daytime sleepiness, be sure to inform your doctor: "My sleep is poor. Could this affect my blood sugar? Do I need to undergo sleep monitoring?"

8. How can I better manage stress?

Chronic stress and anxiety not only affect quality of life but also act as hidden drivers of unstable blood sugar levels. If you feel persistently low in mood or under immense pressure, please do not hesitate to ask: "I am experiencing significant stress and emotional distress. Besides self-regulation, does the hospital offer psychological counseling or related specialized clinics that could assist me?"