MY PERSONAL PHILOSOPHIES OF DIABETES CARE*
People with diabetes do not have equal resources to care for themselves.
Lack of resources affects one’s ability to care for oneself.
Diabetes resources and care are affected by biases including internalized and structural and racism.
Social determinants have a profound impact on wellness with diabetes.
Lifestyle factors play a significant role in the health of all people with diabetes, with or without the use of insulin.
Insulin and technology should be made available to people who need it, regardless of their ability to pay.
People with diabetes are experts in the care of their own diabetes.
People with diabetes can have healthy pregnancies and babies.
People with diabetes need specialized pregnancy and breastfeeding support.
Young people with diabetes need access to safe and effective contraception.
People with diabetes need quality preconception counseling.
No two people with diabetes are the same, just as no two pregnancies are the same.
Medical devices and education lessen the burden of diabetes on pregnant people.
A person’s diabetes health care team should use shared decision-making for medical plans.
Pregnant people with diabetes should have as much time in range for their blood glucose while avoiding hypoglycemia and self-blame.
People with diabetes should be supported in breastfeeding if they chose it.
People with diabetes should be supported actively during the postpartum year as they adjust to newness of managing blood sugar and life.
People with diabetes should be supported in using lifestyle medicine whether or not they use medication.
People with diabetes have choices and are entitled to satisfying pregnancy and birth experiences.
Because it encompasses an identity, people with diabetes should not be referred to as “DIABETIC” unless they choose.
*As I am ever learning, philosophies are evolving and open for discussion
Jessica Lynn, CNM, CDCES, PWD