Scanning device for monitoring blood sugar levels available on the NHS

System that could replace finger prick blood testing will be available across the UK.

A blood sugar monitoring device designed to help people with type 1 diabetes control the condition has been approved in the UK.

The FreeStyle Libre device by Abbott, allows people with type 1 diabetes to test their blood sugar levels with a sensor – so readings are made by scanning, removing the need for finger prick testing.

Subject to local health authority approval, the NHS Business Services Authority will make the device available on the NHS across England and Wales, NHS Scotland and Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland from 1st November 2017.

The blood sugar level monitoring device is designed to change how people with type 1 diabetes measure their glucose levels and help them improve their management of the condition.

Blood sugar levels are measured with a sensor worn on the back of the upper arm for up to 14 days.

In studies of the device researchers reported that people using the FreeStyle Libre system could scan their blood sugar levels an average of at least 15 times per day, which was found to improve blood sugar levels and reduce complications, including hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar levels) and hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar levels).

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