The Surest approach to diabetes.
The Surest approach to diabetes
According to the CDC, more than 38 million Americans have diabetes—that’s more than 11% of the population. Of those 38 million, there are about 8.7 million people who have not been diagnosed and are not receiving treatment.
Many people with diabetes don’t have symptoms, even though it can cause harm to the body. According to the American Diabetes Association, symptoms can include:
- Urinating often
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling very hungry—even though you’re eating
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts or bruises that are slow to heal
- Weight loss—even though you’re actually eating more (type 1)
- Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)
Early detection and treatment of diabetes can decrease the risk of developing complications of diabetes affecting your eyes, heart, blood vessels, nerves, and kidneys. If you’re among those impacted by diabetes, the Surest health plan has comprehensive benefits and resources to support you.
What is diabetes?
When our bodies digest food, carbohydrates are broken down in the blood to create glucose, which powers our cells. But blood glucose (sugar) can’t pass directly into our cells; it needs help. High blood glucose levels tell the pancreas to create insulin, which then opens the cells and lets the glucose inside.
In diabetes, the pancreas may not make insulin, or the body may not use the insulin properly. Glucose then builds up in the blood, leading to a condition called hyperglycemia. Long-term hyperglycemia damages the body, causing complications throughout, and can cause organs to fail.
Types of diabetes
There are three common types of diabetes:
For every type of diabetes, it’s important to get early treatment that includes nutrition, exercise, and medicine.
Prediabetes is a condition that occurs prior to type 2 diabetes; changes in lifestyle can help prevent the development of diabetes. Get details
Diabetes treatment
Common diabetes treatments include:
- Eating healthy foods: lean protein, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, quality carbohydrates, and whole grains
- Performing moderate activity at least 2.5 hours per week
- Limiting alcohol
- Not smoking or vaping
Medications
There are several types of medications used to treat diabetes, and they work in different ways. Some medications are pills taken by mouth; others are injectables (including insulin).
Look up the medication name in the Surest app to view costs. You may find pharmacy contact information on your Surest app instead of costs. In that case, follow the instructions to learn about your costs and coverage.
Some medications may need prior authorization. If they do, your provider will need to initiate the authorization process.
Glucose monitors
Some people with diabetes will need to measure blood glucose levels at home. There are two ways to monitor diabetes at home:
- Standard intermittent glucometer
- Continuous glucose monitors
If you need to measure your blood glucose level at home, ask your doctor what type of device is best for you. Search for “glucometer” or “continuous glucose monitor” in the Surest app for coverage and costs.
Need help finding care, resources, or support? Call Member Services at the number on your Surest ID card.
Diabetes and your health
Diabetes, left untreated, may affect different parts of the body, potentially leading to serious, life-threatening complications. It’s important to follow a treatment plan, be aware of symptoms, and get regular checkups that include assessments of:
- Cardiovascular disease (atherosclerosis, heart failure, arrhythmias): This is twice as likely for those with diabetes than those without.
- Kidney disease: Could potentially lead to end stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis
- Eye disease, screening for retinopathy: The leading cause of blindness in U.S. adults
- Neuropathy (nerve damage): Present in half of people with diabetes.
- Foot complications caused by nerve damage, reduced circulation
- Skin problems including bacterial and fungal infections
- Mouth problems including serious gum disease
- Hearing loss: Twice as likely in people with diabetes
- Stroke: Twice as likely in those with diabetes
Lower your risk of diabetes-related complications by following a treatment plan, including making healthy lifestyle choices, and seeing your doctor regularly.
Diabetes resources
- Member Services can help answer questions about your benefits. Call the number on the back of your card for assistance.
- Diabetes Types and Treatments
- American Diabetes Association
- Nutrition: Decode Food Claims
- It can be stressful to manage chronic conditions. Surest can help you with resources.