§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what diagnostic methods are available on the NHS to allow diabetics to monitor their blood sugar levels; [141153]
(2) whether he intends that provision of blood glucose test strips will remain available on the NHS in the long term. [141154]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonThere are two types of diagnostic methods available on the National Health Service that allow people with diabetes to self-monitor their blood glucose levels. These are blood glucose testing strips and urine testing strips.
Blood glucose testing strips will remain available on the NHS for the foreseeable future and I am not aware of any plans to remove them from NHS prescriptions.
§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what further steps he will take to ensure that(a) diabetics are able to make an informed choice on the types of insulin available and (b) that healthcare providers advise patients of the risks and benefits of different types of insulin. [141160]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonPatient education, information and empowerment is central to the values of the national service framework for diabetes standards published in 2001. Standard Three states
178Wthat all people with diabetes will receive a service that encourages partnership in decision-making and supports them in managing their diabetes, and helps them adopt a healthy lifestyle".This would include, for those requiring it, information about insulin.Full guidance on prescribing and use of synthetic insulins, including possible side effects, is provided in the product information for prescribers and patients.