Imagine a world where your vital healthcare services vanish overnight, leaving you in a precarious situation, with your health at risk. This is the reality faced by my family and countless others in Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland. The recent suspension of Diabetes Day Services at Mullingar Hospital due to staffing shortages and funding issues has left us without crucial support.

For those managing diabetes, regular access to specialised care is not a luxury; it's a necessity. Diabetes, particularly for those of us using insulin pumps or awaiting one, demands consistent monitoring and education to prevent serious complications. Without access to day services, nursing oversight, or essential team-led care, individuals with diabetes are left vulnerable, risking their health and well-being.

Currently, while clinics and emergency care are still accessible, the absence of professional nursing care and diabetes education is alarming. These services are critical in educating patients on managing their condition, adjusting to new treatment plans, and maintaining overall health. In regions already strained by limited healthcare options, the consequences of these suspensions can be dire, leading to avoidable hospital admissions, emergency interventions, and increased healthcare costs over the long term.

According to the World Health Organization, over 400 million people globally suffer from diabetes, and the number is rising—every effort must be made to support the diabetic population to prevent further health complications. Studies show that regular diabetes education and nursing care can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications—by up to 30 percent. Mullingar, like all communities, deserves to have comprehensive diabetes care readily available.

We urge the Health Service Executive alongside the hospital administration to prioritize the reinstallation of Diabetes Day Services and required nursing staff. Let us take actionable steps by allocating necessary funding, recruiting skilled healthcare professionals, and restoring these indispensable services without further delay.

Let’s ensure every diabetic individual in Mullingar has access to the care they deserve—a care that promotes health, well-being, and a secure future. Please sign this petition to demand the reinstatement of Diabetes Day Services at Mullingar Hospital and take a step towards safeguarding the health of our community.