Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for 85-90% of all diabetes cases in Australia1. There’s currently no cure for type 2 diabetes, but it can be managed through lifestyle modifications and prescribed medications including tablets and insulin injections.
Here are some tips on managing type 2 diabetes with exercise and diet, and, if you’re an eligible member with Medibank, your health insurance might be able to help.
Talk to your GP about a diagnosis for type 2 diabetes
If you think you might have type 2 diabetes, your first step should be to visit your GP to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to have some diagnostic blood tests, then pending those results refer you on to other health professionals to help in the management of your condition, such as a credentialed diabetes educator, dietitian, podiatrist or eye specialist. It’s important to note that any diagnostic, GP and pathology services will not be claimable under your private health insurance cover and will incur additional costs.
Ask about the Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program
Medibank’s Type 2 Diabetes Program may help eligible members* lose weight and better manage their diabetes.
Developed with support from leading medical research groups The Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute and Austin Health, the program offers participants a tailored care plan and up to 10 consultations with a dedicated team of dietitians.
There is no charge or enrolment fee to participate in the program if you are an eligible Medibank member. However, if you consult your own GP or specialist during the program, there may be a cost if they don’t bulk bill.
Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program
This 12-month program includes consultations with a dietitian and a supported meal plan that aims to help eligible members achieve a healthy weight and manage their type 2 diabetes. Clinical and product eligibility criteria apply.
Follow a type 2 diabetes diet
An accredited dietitian can prescribe tailored nutritional advice for medical conditions, such as diabetes. If you have extras cover with Medibank, you may be able to claim benefits towards consultations with a dietitian^. Log in to My Medibank to check what’s included in your cover.
Another great way to improve what you’re eating and easily follow a healthier diet is to plan your own meals and cook for yourself. Check out Medibank’s Live Better website for plenty of delicious healthy recipe ideas.
Managing type 2 diabetes with exercise
Adopting a healthy lifestyle and exercising regularly are keys to help prevent and manage type 2 diabetes. Not only does exercise make you feel better, it also plays an important role in maintaining a healthy weight. Medibank’s new Health Support Benefits on selected products can pay towards some gym memberships, exercise classes and personal training sessions where the services are intended to help manage a disease, injury, or condition. If you’re looking for fun social events or something you can do at home to get your body moving, check out our Live Better Activities.
Look after your feet
Diabetes can affect the circulation and nerves in your feet so it’s important to take care of those toes – especially if you have been living with the condition for a long time. A podiatrist can provide education on how to look after your feet, as well as provide ongoing nail and skin care when required.
If you have extras cover with Medibank, you might be able to get help with the costs associated with your treatment.
Protect your eyes
While your optometrist visit should usually be covered by Medicare - if you have private health insurance with extras and you need glasses, you can use your cover to help with the cost of glasses. In fact, Medibank members with eligible extras get 100% back on optical items (up to your annual limit) at any recognised provider. Some glasses lens coatings and contact lenses are excluded and waiting periods apply.~
If you need to go to hospital
In some cases, complications from diabetes can lead to hospitalisation. If you do have to go to hospital, make sure you’re fully informed beforehand.
Medibank’s Hospital Assist is a valuable resource to prepare you for your hospital admission. You can use our Procedure Cost Estimator to estimate your costs, and find out about exclusive member services to support you through your hospital journey.
For more information, or to check that you have the best cover for your condition, talk to our team on 1300 982 407 or chat to our friendly staff online 24/7 for advice and help with your health cover. For members interested in finding out more about health programs, call 1300 733 338.
