Why does the standard of care differ in the uk

[oldgreymare]

Hi @DannyH,
Totally agree the system isn't "fair" and as mentioned by others pumps are expensive and even more importantly pretty difficult to use effectively.

Probably 3 factors to consider re your likelihood of being approved - a) postcode lottery, what overall budget is available to your area - this is out of your control, b) your current issues using MDI, access to / improvement using Libre, DAFNE course attendance completed. Note chronic hypos and hypo unawareness in adult Type 1s is much more of indicator to be considered for pump therapy than high BG levels. But all these much more in your universe to personally influence. And sadly c) your area's availability of specialist staff to train, supervise and evaluate the effectiveness of your pump usage - again variable and in short supply countrywide. But a proactive attitude and willingness to cooperate using time consuming and detailed number monitoring can go a long way.

I've just had a 6 mth review with my diabetes endo - lots to discuss as I self fund a Dexcom G6 CGM. Conclusion - I need to redo basal testing with my Diabetes nurses as too many nighttime hypos, maybe change insulins, add BP medication (not on it yet). Reading between the lines he would consider recommending me for a pump, but looks like a minimum of 18 months more evaluations first. Pragmatically I think this is reasonable, though I still envy a Scottish lady that I've met that was approved almost immediately for both CGM and pump when diagnosed Type 1 age late 40's!

Just keep cracking on!

 

[Deleted member 45091]

Hi all, just trying at the minute in fairness only been on this basal bolus regime just over a year, so going to give it more of a try yet. Il be honest years ago I was drinking, smoking etc eating what I want, and coming onto forums etc was not like me at all, but life itself has a way of making you humble and I find just talking, getting different ideas and learning other peoples journeys just as valuable as the treatments etc. I am glad of the new technology being improved all the time and even if I don't personally benefit from it, it can only be a good thing for future generations. As before life does have a way to humble you, so the appointments that a couldn't be bothered with back in the day IAM making sure there getting grabbed with both hands now. And I think they are seeing the efforts iam putting in and working with me alot more than in the past. Thanks for all your comments il keep posting regular up dates.

 

[Juicyj]

Hi Danny, it's important you don't feel alone in managing this that's why support through others is vital, we are all open books when it comes to learning new stuff about t1, it is an ever changing game, so its important being adaptable to new techniques/tech/care.

Every day is a school day as a t1 friend told me once !

Hope you can build a good relationship with your team, find that one good nurse to back you and you've got it sorted.