LaborPress | Kerri O’Brien | November 16, 2025
A diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming at first. But today, managing diabetes is more achievable—and hopeful—than ever before.
Advancements in technology, better access to care, and support from union wellness programs mean that living with diabetes doesn’t have to hold you back. With the right tools, education, and team, you can take charge of your health and thrive at work and at home.
A New Era of Diabetes Care
Gone are the days when managing diabetes meant constant finger pricks and complicated meal logs. Today’s innovations are giving people freedom, confidence, and peace of mind.
Here are some of the most impactful tools helping millions manage blood sugar effectively:
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
Small, wearable sensors (like the Dexcom G7 or FreeStyle Libre) track your glucose levels all day and night. The data syncs with your smartphone, allowing you—and your healthcare provider—to see trends and adjust in real time.
✅ No daily finger sticks
✅ Alerts for highs and lows
✅ Better understanding of how food, exercise, and stress affect you
Smart Insulin Pens & Pumps
Devices deliver precise insulin doses automatically. Many connect via Bluetooth to your phone, so you can track doses, set reminders, and avoid missed injections.
Mobile Health Apps
Apps turn your phone into a personal health assistant. You can log glucose readings, meals, medications, and even share reports directly with your care team.
Telehealth & Virtual Coaching
Many union health plans now cover virtual diabetes educators and nutrition coaches. You can meet by phone or video chat for personalized advice—no waiting rooms or travel required.
Connected Devices
Smart blood pressure cuffs, scales, and activity trackers can sync data directly to your healthcare portal, helping you and your provider stay on top of your overall health.
Managing Diabetes in Real Life
For workers in physically demanding or shift-based jobs, managing diabetes takes flexibility. These tools make it easier to stay consistent:
- Night-shift workers can use CGMs for 24-hour tracking without worrying about timing meals or finger sticks.
- Transit and utility workers can use apps to set reminders to hydrate, eat on schedule, or check glucose discreetly on the go.
- Office and healthcare professionals can use telehealth visits to review readings without missing work.
The message: You can fit diabetes care into your life—not the other way around.
Teamwork Makes the Difference
Diabetes care works best when you build a team around you. That team might include:
- Your primary care provider or endocrinologist
- A Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)
- A registered dietitian or nutritionist
- Your union wellness coordinator or benefit fund representative
Together, they can help you set goals, monitor progress, and make adjustments that fit your schedule and lifestyle.
Remember, your union benefits were built to support your well-being. Many offer access to screenings, wellness coaching, and coverage for these new technologies—sometimes at no cost.
You’re Not Alone—And You’re Not Defined by Diabetes
Managing diabetes isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Every small action adds up:
1- Choosing water over soda.
2- Walking 20 minutes after dinner.
3- Checking your glucose once more this week.
These steps matter. And with today’s digital tools and supportive health teams, you’re never alone on the journey.
So this week, explore what’s available through your provider or union health plan. Ask about CGMs, mobile health apps, or virtual coaching. If you’ve been putting off taking control, start today.
Because the truth is simple: managing diabetes is easier—and more successful—than ever before.
Follow LaborPress for more stories, technology updates, and resources this month as we spotlight real progress in union health.
