Experiences of living with diabetes in West Essex
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Healthwatch Essex wanted to understand people's experience of diabetes care. They undertook a survey and interviews.
Initial diagnosis
The majority of people feel well treated by their GP surgery. However, the
The majority are offered an education program when diagnosed. However, some found it very poor and others were not offered anything.In turn, this leads to lack of confidence in self-management for many, including worry, confusion and anxiety.
Too many sufferers still do not know enough about their illness. People have a strong need for support and reassurance, and many want to be seen by a nurse of GP much more often.
Latest tech is widely known about and very useful to those that have it. Lack of funding for technology equipment rules it out as an option for many. Only 1 in 10 respondents have been offered any free tech equipment or services.
There remains an inconsistency of supply of medication. People experience regular changes in medication. Difficulties and worries about injecting are common. People talked about their difficulty getting on with many of the medication options.