NHS Scotland patients are set to benefit from expanded access to life-changing diabetes technology, the Scottish Government has announced.
A £350,000 funding injection will streamline the provision of Closed Loop Systems – widely considered to be one of the most significant innovations in type 1 diabetes care in recent history, especially for younger people.
Closed Loop Systems comprise of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors which use the power of technology to communicate with each other and regulate blood glucose levels by adjusting a person's insulin dose.
As a result of their improved glycaemic control, patients are less exposed to the risk of serious complications like renal failure, amputations and blindness.
We’re investing £350,000 in life-changing technology for people living with type 1 diabetes.
— Scot Gov Health (@scotgovhealth) June 23, 2023
The money will accelerate the distribution of Closed Loop Systems – the most significant development in type 1 diabetes treatment in recent years.
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Scotland’s national diabetes lead, Professor Brian Kennon, said: “Closed Loop systems are truly transformative technologies and help reduce the day-to-day burden of trying to optimise type 1 diabetes control.
“Creation of a dedicated team to help support the adoption of Closed Loop Systems and standardise our approach to access across Scotland will help ensure that our healthcare system is well placed to realise the massive advantages that these innovative technologies offer.”
As part of the investment, NHS Golden Jubilee’s national Centre for Sustainable Delivery will establish a team to support local health leaders adopt the new technology effectively and efficiently.
The team’s creation is one of the first measures to be green lighted the Accelerated National Innovation Pathway – a joint venture between:
- The national Centre for Sustainable Delivery
- NHS National Services Scotland
- Healthcare Improvement Scotland
- Public Health Scotland
- The Digital Health and Care Directorate
- NHS Education for Scotland
Having invested around £19.6m since 2021 to support the rollout of innovative technologies in the sector, the Scottish Government says diabetes remains a clinical priority.
Image credit: iStock
