What to Expect at Your First Appointment
At Cincinnati Children’s Diabetes Center, our caring providers help kids with prediabetes, type 1, and type 2 diabetes thrive and enjoy the best health possible. This guide will help you know what to expect at your child’s first outpatient clinic visit. We’re excited to partner with you every step of the way!
If your child's first visit is at the Diabetes Day Hospital, you will prepare a bit differently. Please view our Diabetes Day Hospital Instructions.Scheduling an Appointment
To schedule an outpatient clinic visit, you or your child’s doctor can contact us at 513-636-3005.
While physician referrals are welcome, they are not required.
Before the visit, we’ll gather your child’s medical records, including previous test results.
On the Day of the Visit
Since managing diabetes is a team effort, at least one parent or caregiver must attend the clinic appointment.
Arrival Tips
- Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for parking and walking to the clinic.
- The first visit typically lasts 2–3 hours, depending on your child’s needs.
What to Expect During the Appointment
You will meet with one or more members of our expert care team, which may include:
- Doctors and Nurse Practitioners: Specialists in diagnosing and treating pediatric diabetes.
- Certified Diabetes Educators: Experts in diabetes management and care.
- Registered Dietitians: Nutrition experts that provide guidance on how food choices affect pre-diabetes, diabetes management, overall health, and growth and development.
- Social Workers: Offer emotional support and connect you with helpful resources.
- Exercise Physiologists: Assist with creating personalized exercise plans.
- Researchers. Share opportunities for your child to participate in studies featuring the latest care and treatments.
Your child's first visit will include:
- A health history review and physical exam
- A discussion of your child’s condition and treatment options
- A review of past lab tests and determining if more tests are needed
- Screenings for other health related conditions
- Goal-setting to support your child's health
At the end of the visit, you’ll receive a written after-visit summary with instructions and reminders, which you can also access using MyChart.
Before you leave, our staff will schedule a follow-up appointment for your child, if needed. These typically take place every three to four months.
After the Appointment
PWe’re here to support you beyond the clinic visit. Contact us to:
- Schedule or cancel appointments
- Request prescription refills
- Ask questions about your child's care
MyChart is available for caregivers and patients to request refills, send messages, and ask diabetes related questions. review medical information.
We are committed to helping your child live a healthy, fulfilling life with diabetes—every step of the way!
