Almost £9m of funding is set to expand the provision of life-changing diabetes technology across the NHS in Scotland.
The Scottish Government has said that £8.8m will be invested into closed loop system technology, transforming the lives of tens of thousands across the country.
Closed loop systems use glucose sensors linked to an insulin pump to calculate how much insulin a person needs, thus removing manual calculations and easing the burden on patients.
It is estimated that type 1 diabetes impacts more than 35,000 adults in Scotland and approximately 3,300 children.
The funding will support the roll-out of closed loop systems to all children in Scotland and more adults.
A national team – comprised of diabetes specialist nurses, dietitians, those with live experience and more – will also be on hand to deliver remote training, education and support.
“Closed loop systems are an incredible asset for those living with Type 1 Diabetes,” said Scotland’s health secretary, Neil Gray.
“It not only improves sugar control and reduces the risk of long term complications, but also removes a lot of the burden that people living with type 1 Diabetes face on a day to day basis.”
It is thought that around 70% of all diabetes spend within the NHS is on preventable complications such as treating kidney failure, heart disease, blindness, and foot amputations.
The Scottish health secretary added: “The use of this technology can make it much easier for people to manage their Diabetes, greatly reducing the risk of the health complications that can be associated with the condition.
“This is an example of the kind of innovation that can help transform healthcare, equipping the NHS to meet the challenges it currently faces. It will also greatly improve the lives of people living with Diabetes, particularly children and their parents.”
For more information on how digital technology is paving the way for patients and the NHS, watch National Health Executive’s exclusive online conference on demand now.
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