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Diabetes: new tool can help nurses talk to patients about type 2 remission

Blood glucose returning to a healthy range can be achieved by weight management 
Diabetes tool

Blood glucose returning to a healthy range can be achieved by weight management 


The Remission Information Prescription tool is an online resource. Picture: iStock

A tool has been launched to help nurses talk to patients about the possibility of type 2 diabetes remission.

Some individuals with the insulin-resistant condition can achieve remission, meaning their blood glucose levels have returned to a healthy range and they may not require diabetes medication.

Instigating conversations

The online Remission Information Prescription tool, produced by charity Diabetes UK, aims to provide evidence-based information about what remission is and how it might be possible for some people. It can also be used to aid nurses’ conversations with patients regarding the issue.

A trial, supported by Diabetes UK – which holds its professional conference in Liverpool this week – has shown that remission may be possible for at least two years by following an intensive low-calorie weight management programme.

Gathering data

The charity is encouraging healthcare professionals to use the new tool, which is a template form including condition-management advice and space for data on blood glucose levels, weight and individual health goals.

Staff can then complete an online survey to give their views on using the resource.

Diabetes specialist nurse and Diabetes UK head of care Dan Howarth said: ‘Nurses are frequently the front line when it comes to diabetes care and type 2 diabetes prevention.

‘This new tool is a fantastic resource that will help nurses – and all healthcare professionals – to ensure quality conversations with their patients with diabetes, on what can be a complex issue.’

The charity’s director of research Elizabeth Robertson said: ‘As we learn more about the possibility of type 2 diabetes remission, it stands to reason that people with type 2 will want to talk to their healthcare teams.

‘This resource has been designed to help make these conversations as useful and effective as possible.’

Signs of progress

The NHS does not provide remission services, but NHS England plans to pilot a remission programme soon, and NHS Scotland is rolling out remission programmes across the country, according to the charity.

The remission tool builds on other information prescription resources by Diabetes UK, including ones on foot care, blood pressure and mood.


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