NHS Lanarkshire
Updated 28 July 2011
Who has diabetes?
Numbers diagnosed
Prevalence (Scottish average 3.5)
15530
4.1
14317
3.7
Why are these figures important?
Lanarkshire profile
NHS Lanarkshire is responsible for delivering health to over 553,000 people. 27,450 people or 4.9% of the area have diabetes. Using statistics from the Scottish Public Health Network we estimate another 4,470 individuals remain undiagnosed. Lanarkshire’s population is younger than the Scottish average and levels of deprivation are higher.
The Better Diabetes Care survey, conducted by Diabetes UK Scotland in 2009, has demonstrated annual reviews to be more accessible in Lanarkshire than the rest of Scotland. Such reviews cover areas such as eyes, feet, blood glucose levels, blood pressure weight and a discussion of how patients are feeling are delivered well. Lanarkshire also has a good track record of offering diabetes education compared to the rest of Scotland. Previous surveys have suggested that improvements in communication between healthcare professionals and those living with diabetes would be most beneficial.
In 2007, Diabetes UK Scotland and NHS Quality Improvement Scotland pulled together feedback from focus groups and surveys to report on what was the experience of care of people living with diabetes. The review of the care experience of people living with diabetes within the Lanarkshire area. Praise has been given to the effective teamwork demonstrated between GP practices and Diabetes Specialist Nurses (DSN). Patients have been found to be ‘impressed’ by the digital eye screening system, while the computer networking and ability to share information is proving to be most beneficial. Furthermore, emotional support offered to those with diabetes has been found to be very good.
What people have said about diabetes care in Lanarkshire
"My DSN was excellent with transition when I was put on insulin. She was a role model for other healthcare professionals to follow."
Tell the Scottish Government about your diabetes
The Scottish Government’s websiteBetter Togetheris also interested to hear of people’s experiences of diabetes care. By submitting your experience of NHS care the government hope to improve health services across Scotland. You can follow this link or if you would like send us emailScotland@diabetes.org.ukand we’ll do it for you.
