NHS Lanarkshire is launching a pilot of a new, at-home blood sugar testing initiative, to improve diabetes care in Lanarkshire.
This innovative and patient-centred solution will allow people living with or at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to take a small blood sample at home using a specialist kit and return it via freepost. The samples are then analysed, which will support timely treatment where required. These results will help patients to:
- Understand if they’re at risk of having type 2 diabetes
- Check levels of type 2 diabetes if they already live with it
- See progress after taking part in a support programme
The project will run in collaboration with Randox, who specialise in diagnostics that improve health and NHS West of Scotland Innovation Hub. Initially, patients in the NHS Lanarkshire Weight Management Service will be offered the opportunity to take part, supported by the team’s Consultant Physician for Diabetes, Dr Isabel Howat.
Dr Howat said: “We are thrilled to be part of this significant step forward in modernising diabetes care.
“This new initiative will allow patients at risk of type 2 diabetes, who choose to take part, to be tested for diabetes without having to attend a clinic appointment. Patients will also be able to feedback as to how they found it, which will be very important in helping us develop the service.
“Once Randox has analysed the blood sample, our team will be able to inform the patient and their GP of their results, which will further support individuals on their journey towards living healthier lifestyles.”
David Ferguson, Chief Operations Officer, Randox, commented: “Current estimates suggest that 10% of type 2 diabetes cases are undiagnosed, highlighting the need for an initiative such as this.
“Our aim was to develop a solution that can deliver sustainable and accessible at-home testing through the development and distribution of self-collection blood sample kits, that patients can easily use.
“We’re excited to roll this out in partnership with NHS Lanarkshire to improve health outcomes through innovative, patient-friendly technology.”
Ela Fergusson, Industry Collaboration Project Manager, NHS West of Scotland Innovation Hub, added: “Enabling patients to manage aspects of their health from home while staying connected to the relevant care, aims to enhance their overall experience.
“I’d like to thank all involved including NHS Lanarkshire’s Weight Management Service and Randox alongside NHS National Services Scotland, NHS Education for Scotland, NHS Lanarkshire Research, Development and Innovation and NHS Lanarkshire Digital Services.
“This forward-thinking project, funded by the Chief Scientist Office, is a great example of collaboration in response to the growing need for more flexible healthcare.”
Image: Dr Isabel Howat, Consultant Physician Diabetes, NHS Lanarkshire and Ela Fergusson, Industry Collaboration Project Manager, NHS West of Scotland Innovation Hub.
