‘Information prescriptions’ to be handed out by GPs to get diabetes under control

GPs are being urged to handout the detailed “information prescriptions” in the hope that the page-long printouts will nudge people with the condition in the right direction to avoid serious long-term complications such as amputation.

The NHS initiative follows reports that only a third of people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes have good control of their condition – and a recent Diabetes UK study found that only 36% of people with diabetes meet the three targets set for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels..

GPs will now receive more detailed information to help patients, for example, if someone is not meeting their blood glucose target, an alert will flash on their GP's computer.

A pilot scheme, run by the NHS and Diabetes UK, found information prescriptions were well received as people can take the A4 printouts home that include tips on how to gain better control over risk factors that greatly influence their long-term health.

Professor Jonathan Valabhji MD FRCP, National Clinical Director for Obesity and Diabetes for NHS England, said: "The personal cost to individuals and the financial cost to the NHS of diabetes complications are immense.

"Information prescriptions are a really positive development that will enable primary care to help people with diabetes better understand and take ownership of their diabetes, and so empower people to avoid developing complications in the long term."

An information prescription shows you where to find out more, giving useful contact details and website addresses. It tells you about local and national services and groups that could help.

You can create your own information prescription or you can discuss your information prescription needs with your GP, other healthcare professional or your social care worker.

If you’re unsure what information you need, talk to your healthcare professional, who will be able to help.