Monday 01 August 2022
Adults with Diabetes can now go for an annual diabetes check up with a nurse at their normal doctor's surgery completely free of charge.
Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person's blood sugar level to become too high and there are two main types. Type 1 is where the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin (the hormone which controls sugar in the blood) and Type 2 which is where the body does not produce enough insulin or the body's cells do not react to insulin.
Diane Mathews, Public Health Practitioner (Screening) said:
'When diabetes is poorly controlled it can lead to serious complications for the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. An annual check helps a person manage their diabetes and hopefully avoid these complications.'
People with diabetes will receive a letter inviting them to make an appointment with a nurse from their GP Practice who will then carry out a number of tests and checks. These will include a blood test (which may have been taken in advance), foot checks, blood pressure and a BMI calculation.
The nurse will also be able to give advice about diet and let the person know about other services which might be helpful such as stop smoking services or education classes. The annual check is an ideal opportunity for a person to ask questions about diet, family planning or medication.
Eligible Islanders do not have to call their surgery until they receive their invite letter from their doctor.
More Information about diabetes and diabetes management can be found at: https://gov.gg/diabetes
