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(352) 733-0111

Pediatric Diabetes Transition Information

Fostering independence in diabetes care takes time. Pathway = Tips!

Visit t1dtoolkit.org for diabetes education and support.

Contact UF Health Pediatric Endocrinology:

Appointments: 352-265-7337

Office: 352-265-3422

Pediatric Diabetes Pathway to Independence Ages 12-14

What can you do now to care for your diabetes?

Learn how to give yourself injections, insert your CGM or pump, make decisions about food, count carbs and calculate the correct insulin. Watch these two videos:

Stay connected to your clinic team

iPhone medical alert set up

  • Open Apple's Health app.
  • Edit your profile to include "type 1 diabetes."
  • Allow emergency responders to check your health information even if your phone is locked.

Get to know your peers

Check out floridadiabetescamp.org for camps and programs to connect with others your age who have type 1 diabetes.

Pediatric Diabetes Pathway to Independence Ages 14-16

Sharing responsibility with parents

Learning diabetes skills and setting goals with parents make it safer to have fun with friends. Watch the video below:

Before I Drive

  • Do I have my meter or CGM?
  • Did I check my blood sugar?
  • Do I have something to treat a low?

Watch the "Before I Drive" video.

If I go low while driving

  • Pull over to a safe place.
  • Treat with fast-acting glucose such as glucose tablets, Starburst or Sour Patch Kids candies.
  • Recheck glucose in 15 minutes.

Pediatric Diabetes Pathway to Independence Ages 16-18

Your Rights

Watch the "Your Rights" video to learn about your rights such as extra time or breaks at school and access to diabetes supplies (i.e. food, insulin, technology).

Alcohol and T1D

  • Don't forget to eat beforehand.
  • Alcohol and other drugs may cause your blood sugar to drop.
  • Make sure you monitor blood sugars.
  • Consider sharing your CGM information with your friend group.
  • Make Sure you are with trustworthy friends.

Watch the "Alcohol and T1D" video.

Build a support network

A good group of friends is important. Watch the "Build a Support Network" video.

Pediatric Diabetes Pathway to Independence Ages 18+

Health Insurance

  • Ask to meet with a social worker for insurance planning at 18.
  • If possible, stay on parents insurance until you're 26.
  • Get a part-time job with benefits.

Learn more by visiting thediabeteslink.org/insurance.

Transitioning to Adult Care

It is time to take charge of your diabetes care. Watch the "How is the adult diabetes clinic different from the pediatric one?" video.

Getting a Job/Going to College

Now what? Check out College Diabetes Network and Beyond Type 1 for resources made by young adults with type 1 diabetes.

Watch a video for tips on making healthy food choices and exercising while away from home.