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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rocky Face, GA

My doctor recommended every 3 months. I am a chronic care patient, and have had kidney issues in the past. Also my bilirubin enzymes are high often.

11 hours ago
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Answer Summary

Members weighed in on how often diabetics should get labs done, with most agreeing that every 3 months is a reasonable schedule, especially... Read more

Members weighed in on how often diabetics should get labs done, with most agreeing that every 3 months is a reasonable schedule, especially for those with kidney or liver concerns. Several members shared their own experiences, including one who gets labs every 6 months after improving their health, and another in the UK on the NHS who only gets tested once a year and finds that too infrequent. A recurring theme was the desire for more communication from healthcare providers, with some members appreciating tools like MyChart for quick access to results and personalized follow-up.

A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
I have My Chart. I get my lab results with recommendations before my doctor does. If it is something serious the nurse will send me a message. I wished you had this kind of access.

8 hours ago
A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
That does seem to few. Those kidney function, and liver function needs tested more often.

8 hours ago
A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
Thank you for that. 175 pounds sounds reasonable. My family whines because I am to little now, begging me to gain weight. But I'm in remission and I want to stay in remission. My son mistakenly thought I was a 10 year old child. I do feel better when I weigh more though. You take care as well.

10 hours ago
DiabetesTeam

Every 3 months sounds very reasonable given the history of kidney issues. For people with diabetes whose treatment plan has recently changed, or whose levels aren't well controlled, testing every 3 months is a common recommendation.

Here's a general guide for lab testing frequency with diabetes:

- Stable, well-controlled Show Full Answer

Every 3 months sounds very reasonable given the history of kidney issues. For people with diabetes whose treatment plan has recently changed, or whose levels aren't well controlled, testing every 3 months is a common recommendation.

Here's a general guide for lab testing frequency with diabetes:

- Stable, well-controlled diabetes — A1c tested about twice a year (every 6 months)
- Recently changed medications or uncontrolled levels — every 3 months
- Insulin users — may need testing up to 4 times per year
- Chronic care patients with complications — more frequent monitoring is often needed Given the kidney history, more frequent labs make a lot of sense. Kidney health is closely tied to diabetes management, and doctors typically want to keep a closer eye on things when there's a history of kidney issues.

The most important thing is to follow the doctor's recommended schedule and flag any new or worsening symptoms between visits. If anything feels off, don't wait for the next appointment — reach out to the care team sooner.

11 hours ago
A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
I'm sorry about that.

8 hours ago

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