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Type 2 Diabetes Management Online

Manage type 2 diabetes with a bulk billed telehealth GP. Get prescription reviews, HbA1c referrals, and Chronic Disease Management Plans from home.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. The result is higher than normal levels of glucose in the blood, which over time may damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in Australia and is closely linked to lifestyle, genetics, and age.

Many people with type 2 diabetes have no obvious symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear they may include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, and unintentional weight loss. Diagnosis is typically made through blood glucose and HbA1c testing ordered by your GP.

How a telehealth GP can help

A NewDoc telehealth GP can support most parts of routine type 2 diabetes care. Your GP can review your current medications, renew eScripts, order pathology tests (including HbA1c, fasting glucose, lipids, kidney function, and liver function), and refer you to endocrinologists, dietitians, diabetes educators, or exercise physiologists as needed.

Your GP can also create a Chronic Disease Management Plan, which may give you access to up to five Medicare-rebated sessions per calendar year with allied health providers. This is particularly useful for diabetes because diet and physical activity are cornerstones of management.

Treatment and monitoring

Treatment is individualised. Many people start with lifestyle changes — dietary adjustments, physical activity, weight management, and reducing alcohol — alongside oral diabetes medications listed on the PBS. Some people may need additional classes of medication over time, and your GP will discuss options tailored to your circumstances.

Regular monitoring typically includes an HbA1c test every three to six months, annual checks of cholesterol and kidney function, yearly eye checks with an optometrist, and a diabetic foot check with a GP or podiatrist at least annually. Home blood glucose monitoring may be recommended depending on your treatment plan.

When to see a GP in person

Although telehealth is well-suited to routine diabetes reviews, some checks require an in-person visit. These include diabetic foot examinations, wound care, and any acute concerns such as severe hypoglycaemia, infected wounds, or unexplained symptoms that need physical examination. If you are newly diagnosed, your GP may also recommend an in-person visit to complete baseline assessments.

If you experience symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis — including deep breathing, fruity breath, confusion, severe abdominal pain, or vomiting — seek urgent care by calling 000 or attending your nearest emergency department.

References

This content is informational and does not replace individual medical advice. For personal assessment, book a consultation with your GP. In emergencies, call 000.

Reviewed by Dr. Jason Yu FRACGP

Last reviewed 16 April 2026. Editorial policy

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Frequently asked questions

Can a telehealth GP manage my type 2 diabetes?

Yes. A GP can conduct routine reviews, adjust medications, order blood tests such as HbA1c and lipid panels, and create Chronic Disease Management Plans via telehealth. Physical examinations (such as diabetic foot checks) or procedures require an in-person appointment.

Can I get my diabetes medication prescribed via telehealth?

Yes. If your GP considers it clinically appropriate, commonly used oral diabetes medications available on the PBS can be prescribed during a telehealth consultation and sent to your phone as an eScript. Newer medication classes may require additional assessment; your GP will advise.

What blood tests can a telehealth GP order for diabetes?

Your GP can order an HbA1c test to assess blood glucose control, fasting glucose, lipid panels, kidney function (UEC/eGFR), and liver function tests. Pathology referrals are sent electronically so you can attend any collection centre in Australia.

What is a Chronic Disease Management Plan for diabetes?

A Chronic Disease Management Plan (formerly a GP Management Plan) is a structured plan that can give you access to Medicare rebates for up to five allied health sessions per calendar year — for example with a dietitian, diabetes educator, or exercise physiologist.

Is the consultation bulk billed?

Yes. NewDoc bulk bills telehealth consultations for eligible Medicare cardholders. There is no out-of-pocket cost for the consultation or for any prescriptions, referrals, or pathology requests provided during the appointment.

When should I see a GP in person instead of via telehealth?

An in-person GP visit is required for a diabetic foot check, HbA1c point-of-care testing, wound care, and any acute concerns that need a physical examination. Routine annual reviews can often be done via telehealth between in-person checks.

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