According to researchers in the UK, nurses trained to provide psychological support for patients with type 2 diabetes could lower waiting lists for specialist treatment . Unfortunately, many people with diabetes face a greater risk of depression and mental health problems.
Due to a shortage of psychological specialists, counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy has been inconsistent with long waiting lists. If general clinicians such as practice nurses and diabetes specialist nurses could be trained to provide support a solution could be provided.
Researchers at University of Warwick reviewed 35 trials that involved psychological therapies being applied to diabetes patients. The authors were reported as commenting: ‘There is a shortage of psychological specialists within the NHS and psychological treatments are difficult to access for most patients,’ the authors said in Patient Education and Counselling. With some additional training, diabetes and generalist clinicians have the potential to effectively deliver psychological interventions and improve patient outcomes.’

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