NHS launches range of online tools for diabetics to help during Covid-19

A number of online tools for those living with diabetes are now available on the NHS to help people manage their condition during the coronavirus pandemic.

Three new services will allow people to manage their condition online, with a range of videos and training for children and adults available on each app and website.

This remote support will complement patients’ appointments, many of which have been going ahead throughout the pandemic, through video consultations or via telephone, and more recently in Covid-19 protected areas.

People living with Type 1 diabetes can access the following technology:

• Digibete –  an app and website for children and young people with Type 1 diabetes and their families which covers a wide range of awareness, education, training and support resources
• MyType1Diabetes – adults with Type 1 diabetes can access a website which includes videos and eLearning courses

People with Type 2 will be able to access the following from later this year:

• Healthy Living for people with Type 2 diabetes – a platform which provides users with the skills and knowledge to manage their Type 2 diabetes effectively, including advice on emotional and mental wellbeing, and helps users adopt and maintain healthy behaviours around diet and exercise

Online appointments, routine discussions with GPs and a dedicated helpline for those treated with insulin are among a range of measures that the NHS has already adopted so that diabetes care can go ahead as normal.

The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is also being delivered remotely using platforms such as Microsoft Teams to continue to help those at risk of Type 2 diabetes to reduce their risk.

Professor Partha Kar, national specialty advisor on diabetes for NHS England and Improvement said: “Living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes is a daily challenge for millions of people and knowing they are more at risk if they are infected with coronavirus will be worrying, but the NHS has taken action to help people and keep them safe, including the roll out of these helpful apps.

“Access to trusted information and support is key to helping people manage their diabetes and we are delighted to support these tools which will hopefully empower people to look after their own condition and reduce their risk.”