Appointment with anesthesiologist

Hi. So I'm a type 1 diabetic 34 weeks and at my last OB appointment I was told that I had to go see the anesthesiologist because I want an epidural when the time be. I was told it was mandatory at the hospital where I plan to give birth. I was wondering is this standard procedure? Or does it have to do with the fact that I'm diabetic? Also I'll be going to see him next week what should I expect if anyone else has been to an appointment with an anesthesiologist? Thanks