Diabetes Update Posted or Updated on 9 Jul 2024

In March 2019, NHS England issued national guidance for funding of Flash Glucose Monitoring (using a sensor on the upper arm rather than finger prick test) for relevant diabetes patients. As a result, the NHS in mid and south Essex has reviewed local policy (EXTERNAL LINK). If you are already under the care of the specialist diabetes team, they will discuss your eligibility at your next routine review.

If you meet the criteria you will receive FreeStyle Libre® funded by the NHS. If you are not under the care of the diabetes specialist team but you clearly meet those strict criteria, you will need to ask to be referred to the specialist team for assessment, and you will be seen at the next available routine appointment.

Patients who want to use (or continue using) FreeStyle Libre® but who do not meet the criteria for an NHS-funded system can buy it directly from the manufacturer by visiting www.FreeStylelibre.co.uk/libre/ or telephoning 0800 170 1177.

 More information is provided in Frequently Asked Questions

Yours sincerely,

 D. Rabette
Head of Medicines Optimisation, Thurrock and Basildon and Brentwood CCGs and GPs.