The aim of this study was to assess the level of health-related quality of life (HRQOL)  and self-care management among patients with diabetes type 2. A descriptive method was used to investigate HRQOL and self-care management in diabetes type 2 patients at Phutthamonthon Hospital, Nakhon Prathom Province between October and November, 2006. A convenient sample of 79 patients with diabetes type 2 participated and interviewed by a questionnaire which consisted of three parts; demographic data, HRQOL using the SF-36-scale consisted of eight items and self-care management. The mean score of patients showed for physical functioning, 70.9; role limitations due to physical health, 63.7; role limitations due to emotional problems, 77.8; energy/fatigue, 65.6; emotional well being, 71.9; Social functioning 78.2; pain, 67.9; and general health, 54.1. Almost all patients 98.7% (n=78) had done something to improve their diabetes such as physical exercise, 86.1%; controlling diet, 75.9%; controlling their body weight, 77.2%; reduced their intake of fat and sugar, 74.7%; controlling consumption of alcohol, 81.0%; and reduced their cigarette consumption 36.7%; taken medicine for diabetes, 97.5%; and had regular appointments with a doctor or nurse, 96.2%. Almost all (98.7%) of the diabetes patients had their blood glucose measured less than three months ago. Their last mean value of the blood glucose was measured to155 mg/dL. The prevalence of complications caused by diabetes showed that 57% of the patients had reduced circulation in hands and feet, 36.7% had hypertension, 55.7% had reduced sexual function, 13.9% had diabetes ulcer. Almost all patients had a good level of HRQOL and self-care management. This indicates that the patients should be provided with continuing adequate information in how to manage their illness for a successful HRQOL and self-care.