Patients with a learning disability and insulin-treated diabetes can now access a free Flash Glucose Monitor, reveal health leaders at Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs).
Flash Glucose Monitors are now available on the NHS to support people with a learning disability and diabetes, who use insulin to help them stay well. Flash Glucose Monitors help people manage their blood sugar levels which can result in fewer ambulance call outs and hospital visits.
Dr Julian Povey, Joint Chair of Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin CCGs, said: “If you have diabetes and use insulin it’s important to understand your blood sugar levels so that you can stay well.
“Flash makes it easier to check your glucose levels and you don’t need as many finger prick tests. It enables you to take action earlier giving patients, families and carers more confidence in managing the condition.
“The Flash monitor collects information about your glucose levels and you can check your own levels by using an App on your phone. You can also share this information with people who support you to keep well and is available on prescription for people with learning disabilities and insulin-treated diabetes.
“During coronavirus, information can also be easily shared with your diabetes team during an appointment online or on the telephone. This enables the diabetes team to review and adjust care appropriately.”
All people with Type 1 diabetes or insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes, who are living with a learning disability, and are recorded on their GP learning disability register are eligible for Flash. They can help people manage their blood sugar levels, which can result in fewer ambulance call_outs and hospital visits.
Patients can raise Flash at their next diabetes routine review with their specialist diabetes nurse or consultant. For patients not currently under specialist care, they should discuss with their GP who may refer them to the diabetes specialist team.
Help using Flash can be provided by diabetes teams, and frequently asked questions about Flash are available here.
