It has happened to all of us—as soon as you need to recall an important fact, date or number, you forget what it is. A visit to your doctor can be the same way. You may know there are several points you want to discuss, but the pressure of the moment may cause them to escape your memory.

When you see your doctor or healthcare professional, for example, you may need to make sure he or she has recorded your weight, completed all the necessary blood tests and checked your blood pressure, skin, feet, eyes, lipids and other tests and screenings. There are also medications to discuss, as well as changes in your lifestyle or level of activity, plus any number of your own special concerns to talk about.

However, as hard as doctors may try, their time can be very limited. Make the most of your next visit by being as organised as possible by creating a checklist of all the things you want to discuss about your diabetes management plan. By doing so, it can help ensure that you are on the right track and in control of your diabetes management.

Here is a checklist of helpful information regarding your current health that you should bring with you to your next doctor visit:

• Your latest blood glucose results and trends
• How you are feeling; specific issues with eyes, feet, other body parts
• How you are managing your meal plan, weight, stress and exercise
• Symptoms of any illness you might be experiencing
• Any other general questions or concerns you want to discuss