Useful Information (continued)
Free Prescriptions
If your diabetes is treated with tablets, you are entitled to receive FREE prescriptions for all your medication.
Vaccines
Annual vaccination against influenza is strongly recommended for those of all ages who have diabetes.
A vaccine against the bacteria that can cause pneumonia is also recommended for people with diabetes. This is a one off vaccine that may need a boost every 5-10 years.
Patients with diabetes should receive other vaccines e.g. holiday vaccinations the same as for the general public.
Insurance
Your motor insurance company should be informed of your diagnoses of diabetes. If you require insulin treatment in the future they will also need to be informed.
It is important to declare your diabetes when applying for life insurance, however any life assurance you hold prior to your diagnosis is not affected.
Many travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes. It is essential to check very carefully whether the policy you are purchasing carries such an exclusion. If it does, you may not be covered for diabetes and related conditions such as heart attacks or strokes.
Motoring
If you have diabetes that is treated with tablets or insulin, you must, by law, inform the DVLA. If you are on tablets only you will probably receive an "untill 70" licence following completion of a self-declaration form (and medical investigation if required).
People who are treated by diet alone or diet and tablets are normally allowed to hold an LGV, HGV or PSV licence, provided that they are otherwise in good health.
Next Page - Optometrists
