Healthcare professionals, especially GPs and pharmacists, have been reminded that they should work collaboratively with patients to ensure the optimal amount of testing strips are prescribed and supplied to people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).
A letter, Safe care of people with type 1 diabetes, has been sent from Dr Rowan Hillson, National Clinical Director for Diabetes; Dr Keith Ridge, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer; Claire Howard, QIPP National Lead Medicines Use and Procurement; and Susan Grieve, Principal Pharmacist to all GPs, hospital doctors, community pharmacists, chief executives and PCTs.
The following points are being highlighted:
- The requirements placed upon those with T1D by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.
- Differences between T1D and type 2 diabetes.
- The essential role of the finger prick test in helping those with T1D to remain safe, and to cope with the demands of day-to-day life with diabetes.
- The increase in diabetic ketoacidosis cases.
This reminder is an outcome of an All Party Parliamentary Group meeting with health minister Anna Soubry.
Diabetes UK and many other groups have expressed considerable concern that people with T1D are not always being prescribed enough finger prick glucose testing strips to monitor their blood glucose. This means those affected cannot adjust their insulin during the day, or do safety checks, which can lead to serious clinical consequences.
