Thank you for contacting me about diabetes and blood glucose testing.
I agree that it is extremely important for people with diabetes to be fully supported in maintaining their blood glucose levels.
It is vital that glucose monitoring technology, such as continuous glucose monitoring or blood glucose test strips, continue to be available to those meeting the relevant clinical criteria.
In November 2017, FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitors were made available on the NHS for those with Type 1 diabetes, subject to local approval. After a recent investigation found patients in some areas of the country were being denied access, NHS England announced it will now fund the device to allow access throughout the country, in all 195 Clinical Commissioning Groups. I am pleased that since April 2019, all qualifying patients have been able to receive flash glucose monitoring from their local GP or diabetes team. This will help to make life more convenient for those with the condition while saving the NHS time and resources by preventing people becoming ill in the first place.
As you may know, some individuals are already tested for diabetes under the NHS Health Check. Prevention, good management and patient education are key to preventing complications of diabetes, such as amputations.
I know that new treatments and technologies are being created all the time, which is why I welcome the Medicines and Medical Devices Bill, which aims to keep patients safe while ensuring they have the safest and earliest possible access to new drugs and technologies. Unfortunately, due to Coronavirus I was unable to attend the previously scheduled event for Tuesday 24th March, but I will continue to closely monitor this issue.