In a pioneering move, NHS England is set to provide an ‘artificial pancreas’ to tens of thousands of individuals grappling with type 1 diabetes.
The groundbreaking artificial pancreas marks a significant step in diabetes management, offering hope and relief to those living with the condition.
Dr Clare Hambling, National Clinical Director for diabetes, explained: “This is another example of the NHS leading the way in healthcare, rolling out these groundbreaking devices across England over the next five years.
“This transformative technology holds the power to redefine the lives of those with type 1 diabetes, promising a better quality of life as well as clinical outcomes.
“Type 1 diabetes is an easily missed diagnosis, so if you are concerned about symptoms – the 4Ts – going to the Toilet, passing urine more frequently, with Thirst, feeling Tired and getting Thinner (losing weight), please come forward for support.”
How does the artificial pancreas work?
The innovative device, often referred to as a Hybrid Closed Loop system or artificial pancreas, operates by continuously monitoring an individual’s blood glucose levels.
Subsequently, it automatically adjusts the insulin dosage administered through a pump, effectively mimicking the function of a natural pancreas.
Wide-reaching impact on diabetes patients
With an estimated 269,095 people in England living with type 1 diabetes, the introduction of this technology holds immense promise.
Not only does it offer a more seamless method of insulin delivery, but it also has the potential to prevent life-threatening hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes, which can result in seizures, coma, or even death.
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Tens of thousands more adults and children are set to receive their own ‘artificial pancreas’ to manage their type 1 diabetes. This improves their treatment and quality of life.
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— NHS England (@NHSEngland) April 2, 2024
Driving implementation
Following approval from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in December 2023, NHS England has unveiled a comprehensive five-year implementation strategy outlining a clear timeline for the provision of the artificial pancreas to eligible patients.
To facilitate this transformative endeavour, NHS England has allocated £2.5m to local health systems.
This funding aims to support the identification of eligible individuals who stand to benefit from the artificial pancreas.
The mass rollout follows a successful pilot programme involving 835 adults and children with type 1 diabetes, underscoring the technology’s efficacy.
NICE guidelines recommend prioritising children and young people under 18 with type 1 diabetes, pregnant women with the condition, and adults with an HbA1c level of 58 mmol/mol (7.5%) or higher for device deployment.
By targeting these demographics, the NHS aims to optimise the impact of the technology and enhance diabetes management across the board.
