Essential health checks available to all diabetes patients

Each year, there are a number of health checks that those living with diabetes are entitled to. These health checks are to be competed in order to reduce your risk of developing any serious diabetes complications such as issues with your sight (retinopathy), kidney problems (nephropathy), or foot problems.

We are now commissioned by NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB

The 15 Essential Health Checks are:

Blood glucose test (HbA1c)
It is good practice to regularly monitor your own blood glucose levels. To better understand your results, view our HbA1c conversion table.

Blood pressure check
Further information about how to prevent high blood pressure.

Cholesterol check

Eye Screening
Information about the Essex Diabetes Eye Screening Programme

Kidney tests
Read about the importance of urine testing.

Foot and leg checks
For advice on how to check your own feet and what to look for

Diet advice
Diabetes UK: What is a healthy, balanced diet for diabetes?

Emotional and psychological support
Useful resources about mental health and wellbeing Therapy for you

Diabetes education
NEEDS offer Type 1 and Type 2 patient education sessions at a variety of different community settings and times.

Care from diabetes specialists
The NEEDS team is made up of nurse consultants, diabetic specialist nurses, dieticians, community diabetologists, podiatrists and administrators.

Annual Review

Free flu jab

Inpatient care
Read our news article about the diabetes inpatient care at Colchester General Hospital.

Support with any sexual problems
Diabetes UK – Sex and Diabetes

Quit smoking support
Online support can be found on the Better Health

Specialist pregnancy care
Staying on top of your diabetes management is key when you are planning and going through pregnancy.

Healthy Living with Diabetes
Free support for stop smoking, getting active, losing weight, mental health visit Better Health