Calls for NHS Fife to adopt new diabetes technology

Appeal by MSP for end to ‘postcode lottery’

NHS Fife has been urged to introduce new diabetes technology already available in other areas of Scotland.

Labour MSP Alex Rowley has written to the board after news prescription of the Freestyle Libre device will be further delayed in Fife, despite being approved for use by the NHS nine months ago.

The Mid Scotland and Fife member has called for a clearer timeframe for the introduction of the flash glucose monitoring system in the region.

A similar call has been made by Kirkcaldy SNP MSP David Torrance, supporting local diabetes patients wanting the device approved for Fife.

The technology allows people with diabetes to check their glucose levels without the need to prick a finger or draw blood.

NHS Fife said it would be considering the issue within the next few weeks.

As well as reducing the risk of serious long-term harm, Mr Rowley said the new system is cost-effective for people who were treated with insulin and testing frequently.

“Half of the health boards in Scotland already provide access to this lifechanging technology. I am disappointed that NHS Fife is still lagging behind,” he said. “There should be no postcode lottery when it comes to healthcare.”

Mr Torrance said the Freestyle Libre device was added to the Scottish Drug Tariff on November 1 and had been recommended for use by the Scottish Health Technology Group since July.

NHS Fife medical director Dr Frances Elliot said: “We note the publication of advice from the Scottish Health Technology Group in relation to Freestyle Libre.

“As such, a paper outlining the implications of its introduction will make its way through the necessary governance committees of NHS Fife and the Health and Social Care Partnership over the coming weeks.”

Half of the health boards in Scotland already provide access to this... ALEX ROWLEY

Alex Rowley. Picture: Steven Brown.