Helpful Tips for Diabetics During the COVID-19 Outbreak

1.      Be prepared: make sure you have the medications, foods, and supplies you need in your home.

Be sure you have at least 2 weeks of extra refills for all medications, as well as insulin pens and necessary. In addition to Express Scripts, we’ve partnered with a prescription delivery service called Medly Pharmacy, so you can get prescriptions delivered to your home before they start running low. It may also be helpful to have a list of all your medications and doses—it’s easy to lose track of these things when your regular daily routine is disrupted. Keep your pantry stocked with simple carbohydrates, in case blood sugar levels drop (i.e. regular juice or soda, glucose tablets, honey, sugar, candy, popsicles, or jello).

2.      Stay in touch with your health care team.

Make sure you have contact information for your medical providers, and don’t hesitate to bring up questions or concerns—EmblemHealth members can use telehealth to have virtual doctor visits (learn more here). Have a list of topics to bring up during your appointment, like:

·         If you feel your medication or insulin needs to be adjusted.

·         If you have drastic changes in your food intake.

·         When to test for ketones and if you test positive for ketones.

·         How often to check blood sugar levels.

·         What medications to take if you feel sick.

·         If you need to make changes to your regular medications if you feel sick.

3.      Maintain your regular healthy eating routine.

Try to eat regularly throughout the day—plan to have a meal or snack every 3-4 hours. Keep healthy options stocked in your home and stay hydrated—focus on sugar-free beverages, like water or seltzer.

4.      Protect yourself by following the CDC’s guidelines.

·         Stay home and call your doctor if you think you have symptoms of COVID-19.

·         Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

·         Avoid crowds and public spaces. If you must go out for essentials (like groceries), wear a face covering and gloves. Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.

·         Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

·         Avoid touching high-touch surfaces in public places and avoid hand shaking.

·         Avoid touching your face.

·         Clean and disinfect your home regularly.