My wife Kathleen and sister Angela , both living with type 1 diabetes, have endured the daily struggle of multiple injections and constant glucose monitoring to avoid hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia. Their experiences are not unique; they reflect the reality of many individuals living with type 1 diabetes in Northern Ireland. 

Hybrid closed-loop systems, also known as 'artificial pancreas', have been shown to significantly improve the quality of life for people with type 1 diabetes by automatically adjusting insulin levels. This technology can reduce the risk of dangerous blood sugar lows by up to 39% (Diabetes UK). However, these life-changing devices are not currently available to everyone who needs them in our region.

We call on health authorities in Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann to follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommendations to ensure that hybrid closed-loop systems are made accessible for all people living with type 1 diabetes. This is already being implemented in England. It's time we prioritise the health and well-being of NI patients by providing access to this potentially life-saving technology.

If more diabetics maintained better control of their condition, the NHS (National Health Service) would also benefit in several ways:

1. Reduced healthcare costs: Better control of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. By avoiding these complications, the need for expensive medical interventions and long-term treatments can be reduced, leading to cost savings for the NHS.

2. Decreased hospital admissions: Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to acute complications that require hospitalization, such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemia. By maintaining better control of their condition, diabetics can minimize the risk of these emergencies, resulting in fewer hospital admissions and relieving the strain on NHS resources.

3. Improved productivity: When diabetics have better control over their condition, they are less likely to experience fluctuations in blood sugar levels that can negatively impact their daily activities and work. By maintaining stable blood sugar levels, individuals with diabetes can lead healthier and more productive lives, contributing positively to the workforce and economy.

4. Enhanced patient outcomes: Improved diabetes control can lead to better overall health outcomes for individuals. By maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, diabetics can reduce the risk of long-term complications and enjoy a better quality of life. This, in turn, improves patient satisfaction and overall healthcare outcomes.

5. Prevention of future cases: By encouraging and supporting diabetics to maintain better control of their condition, the NHS can contribute to the prevention of future cases of diabetes. By promoting healthy lifestyle choices, early detection, and effective management, the prevalence of diabetes can be reduced, resulting in long-term benefits for the healthcare system.

In summary, if more diabetics maintained better control of their condition, the NHS would experience reduced healthcare costs, decreased hospital admissions, improved productivity, enhanced patient outcomes, and prevention of future cases of diabetes.

Please sign this petition and help us bring about this crucial change for those battling type 1 diabetes every day.