A report called Diabetes: State of the Nations 2005, which examines the state of diabetes care across the UK, has been launched in Westminster.
Produced by Diabetes UK and the All Party Parliamentary Group for Diabetes, the report draws together comments from people with diabetes along with government statistics, to show what is happening in diabetes care.
The main findings show that whilst some progress is being made, there are still some real problem areas, including eye screening to prevent blindness, services for children and the provision of education programmes.
It also found that there is a lack of clear information over whether targets are being met.
Speaking at a reception to mark the launch, Douglas Smallwood, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK said, "When targets are set it is important to know whether they are being met. We are concerned that pressure to meet targets will lead to local NHS providers plucking figures out of the air."
He added: “The government’s targets state that by March 2006 at least 80 per cent of people with diabetes have to be offered screening.
"The Department of Health says 61 per cent of people in England are having their eyes screened, whilst GP practices are saying the figure is 85 per cent. It is very difficult to gauge what is happening and there is a clear lack of consistency."
Also speaking at the launch, Adrian Sanders MP, Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Diabetes said, "As well as analysing publicly available statistics and data on diabetes, the report provides a voice for people with diabetes, their families, friends and carers."
"Although some people told us they were getting excellent care, for many, their experiences fall far short of the aims and expectations of the frameworks," he said.
"It is clear that improvements still need to be made to enable excellent care for everyone with diabetes, regardless of where they live and who they are."
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