Hello
My husband has type 1 diabetes and has been applying to the fire service. A couple of years ago he made it to the final stage of the application (medical) and the doctor was very negative, stating that he didn't believe people with diabetes should work in this type of job as it is too dangerous etc. He then said my husband would be considered if his bloods reached a specific number (below 50 Hba1c) and not having any hypos. We are concerned about this because although he did reach this level, his diabetes nurse said that the lower the Hba1c, the more likely hypos are?
Is it right to ask him to have not had any hypos? Is this realistic? If so, how?
Anyway, he is applying again and I am planning ahead. I understand his rights e.g. he should be considered individually etc. However, I wondered if anyone could share their experiences of being in the emergency services with type 1? For example, I am worried about if he needs to go out on a job and his glucose levels are low - will he then not be allowed to go? What will happen? How do people manage this?
Just after some general tips/ideas of how my husband can have the best chance and experience please.
Many thanks
Chelsea
My husband has type 1 diabetes and has been applying to the fire service. A couple of years ago he made it to the final stage of the application (medical) and the doctor was very negative, stating that he didn't believe people with diabetes should work in this type of job as it is too dangerous etc. He then said my husband would be considered if his bloods reached a specific number (below 50 Hba1c) and not having any hypos. We are concerned about this because although he did reach this level, his diabetes nurse said that the lower the Hba1c, the more likely hypos are?
Is it right to ask him to have not had any hypos? Is this realistic? If so, how?
Anyway, he is applying again and I am planning ahead. I understand his rights e.g. he should be considered individually etc. However, I wondered if anyone could share their experiences of being in the emergency services with type 1? For example, I am worried about if he needs to go out on a job and his glucose levels are low - will he then not be allowed to go? What will happen? How do people manage this?
Just after some general tips/ideas of how my husband can have the best chance and experience please.
Many thanks
Chelsea