NHS Boosts Diabetes Care for People with Learning Disabilities
The NHS has announced a major expansion of its Flash glucose monitoring rollout. Now, people with learning disabilities who manage their diabetes with insulin can get the Flash device to better control their blood sugar levels.
Life-Changing Tech for Bradley
Bradley Emmans, a nine-month-old diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and living with Down’s Syndrome in Portsmouth, recently received a Flash glucose monitor. The device, about the size of a £2 coin, sticks to the back of the upper arm and can be worn for up to 14 days.
This gadget eliminates the need for Bradley’s multiple daily finger prick tests. Using a mobile app, he, his family, and carers can track his blood sugar levels 24/7, receiving alerts if levels become dangerous. This drastically reduces the risk of hypoglycemia, which can be fatal.
Family Praise for Flash Monitor
“Before Flash, Bradley’s blood sugar control was poor. He hated the finger pricks, which caused him severe anxiety about his hands being touched,” said Clifford Emmans, Bradley’s dad.
“Bradley doesn’t recognise symptoms of blood sugar shifts, so Flash not only monitors for him but alerts me too.
“He loves concerts now because he can keep dancing without the hassle of testing. I just wave my phone past his arm discreetly, getting instant readings. His sugar levels have improved to around 6 or 7, and his anxiety has dropped massively. Flash has been a total blessing and has changed our lives.”
NHS Chief Nurse: Flash Tech a Game-Changer
Duncan Burton, Chief Nurse for NHS England in the South East, said:
“This is a fantastic example of how the NHS is using the latest tech to support people with learning disabilities.
“Flash monitors transform diabetes management, keeping people well and out of hospital.”
Originally, Flash devices were only for select Type 1 diabetes patients. The NHS now offers them to everyone with learning disabilities who use insulin, including many with Type 2 diabetes. Up to 3,000 people are expected to benefit from this rollout.
