skip to main content
Ask New Question

When should I consider referring a patient with Type 2 Diabetes to a specialist

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MSt MRCGP.

Posted: 14 August 2025Updated: 14 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed

You should consider referring a patient with Type 2 Diabetes to a specialist for further management in specific clinical situations:

  • Suspected Gastroparesis: Consider referring adults with type 2 diabetes to specialist services if gastroparesis is suspected and the differential diagnosis is in doubt, or if the person has persistent or severe vomiting .
  • Children and Young People: For children and young people with suspected Type 2 Diabetes, referral to a multidisciplinary paediatric diabetes team is recommended for specialist review to confirm diagnosis and provide immediate and continuing care .
  • Structured Education Programmes: Patients should be offered referral to a structured group education programme, such as the DESMOND (Diabetes Education for Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed) programme, at or around the time of diagnosis, with annual reinforcement and review ,.
  • General Contact: Ensure that the person and their family/carers know how to contact the specialist diabetes team, if appropriate ,.

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.

Continue exploring

Explore these topics in the iatroX reference and learning libraries.

Knowledge CentreDiabetes Mellitus Type 2Knowledge CentreDiabetes Mellitus Type 1UK clinical guidanceType 2 diabetesUK clinical guidanceType 1 diabetes (adults)Clinical calculatorA1C to Estimated Average Glucose (eAG)UKMLA AcademyType 1 Diabetes Mellitus