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Cost of diabetes will continue to rise – PAC report finds

25th Jan 2016 - 11:12
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Cost of diabetes will continue to rise – PAC report finds
Abstract
In its latest report, The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has said that weaknesses in the approach of the Department for Health and NHS England means the cost of diabetes to the NHS will continue to rise.

The PAC report found progress has been since the last examination in improving outcomes for diabetes patients, but found there remains unacceptable variations in the take up of education programmes, delivery of recommended care processes, achievement of treatment standards and in outcomes for diabetes patients.

Meg Hillier MP, Chair of the PAC, said: "The NHS and Department for Health have been too slow in tackling diabetes, both in prevention and treatment.

“The number of people with diabetes is increasing, as is the number of patients who develop complications. It is a very serious condition that can have a huge impact on people’s lives. Yet support available to patients and those at risk varies hugely across the country.

“There’s clear evidence of what works and as a priority action must be taken to ensure best practice in treatment and education is adopted across the board.

“Taxpayers must have confidence that support is available when and where they need it, rather than by virtue of where they live."

In 2013-14, there were an estimated 3.2 million people aged 16 years or older with diabetes in England. The condition is estimated to cost the NHS £5.6 billion a year.

Written by
PSC Team