The Diabetes Management Programme

We believe in member-focused care by providing quality and efficient healthcare. Our Management Programmes give you and your healthcare provider access to tools and benefits to monitor and manage your condition, ensuring high-quality coordinated healthcare and the best outcomes.

Joining these programmes extends your benefits with additional, dedicated services. More information is available upon registration, on the website, or from the Call Centre at 0860 222 633.

Managing diabetes effectively is crucial to prevent complications like blindness, kidney failure, or heart disease.

Our Diabetes Management Programme, in partnership with the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology (CDE), offers comprehensive care and education to help you manage your condition and improve your overall health.

Why good diabetes management is essential

Diabetes Mellitus (diabetes) is a chronic condition that requires careful management to avoid severe health issues. Proper control of diabetes significantly reduces the risk of complications. Patients need optimal medical care and education to maintain good diabetic control and enhance their quality of life.

About the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology

The CDE is a holistic, multi-specialist diabetes centre. It employs a team approach to manage diabetes, including specialists, educators, dietitians, podiatrists, psychologists, and biokineticists. The CDE also trains healthcare providers in effective diabetes care and coordinates a network of affiliated centres nationwide.

Benefits of the programme

Once registered on the Diabetes Management Programme, you will receive the following benefits:

• Doctor visits: Access to a minimum of two examinations per year by a CDE doctor, with additional visits if clinically necessary.
• Diabetic foot care: Annual risk screening and education by a podiatrist, with more frequent visits if needed.
• Yearly eye screenings: Screening for diabetic-related eye problems with an ophthalmologist.
• Dietary advice: Initial consultation with a dietitian and yearly follow-ups, with additional visits if required.
• Diabetes education and support: Comprehensive education including individual and group sessions, with regular follow-ups.
• Laboratory screening: Regular tests to monitor diabetes control, kidney function, and cholesterol.
• Medicine and accessories: Funding for a select list of diabetes-related medicines and accessories.
• Emergency care: Access to appropriate care for diabetes emergencies and hospital admissions.
• 24-hour hotline: A telephonic hotline for diabetes emergencies, providing immediate assistance and reducing unnecessary hospital admissions.

How to join the programme

To join the Diabetes Management Programme for type 1 or type 2 diabetes, call the CDE on 011 053 4400 or email members@cdediabetes.co.za. You can also find a CDE healthcare provider on their website under the "For People with Diabetes" menu.

What to do once enrolled

• Stick to the treatment plan: Attend the minimum required visits and follow the CDE's guidance to manage your diabetes effectively.
• Inform us about hospital admissions: Notify us on 0860 222 633, and your CDE branch, of any diabetes related
• hospital admissions.

Published January 2025