In recognition of World Diabetes Day NHS South West Essex have organised an open day to highlight diabetes awareness.
The new diabetic care centre at Orsett Hospital will be open on Friday 12 November between 10.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 3.30pm giving patients an opportunity to talk to the specialist team of diabetic nurses and gain a greater understanding of their condition. Blood sugar level tests will also be on offer.
Dr. Arun Patel, Associate Director of Public Health at NHS South West Essex said: “There has been a year on year increase in the number of diabetics diagnosed in south west Eseex. Diabetes is a serious illnes that can lead to serious complications if it is not properly managed. To help patients take control of their condition we would strongly recommend that they take the opportunity to visit the diabetic centre and talk to a specialist diabetic nurse.”
ENDS
For more information, please contact Amanda Barlow at NHS South West Essex, on 01268 705099 or email amanda.barlow@swessex.nhs.uk
Notes for editors
Approx. 500 people are diagnosed with diabetes every year in South West Essex
NHS South West Essex is the primary care trust that commissions services for people living in south west Essex. This means that we plan, develop and buy services for people living in Thurrock, Brentwood, Basildon, Billericay and Wickford.
In light of the financial challenges faced by NHS South West Essex, our Board agreed a turnaround plan in September 2010. This is intended to help us meet our statutory responsibilities and reach financial breakeven by the end of the current financial year (31 March 2011). The plan reprioritises our activities and commitments for the short-term. Find out more at www.swessex.nhs.uk/about-us/our-priorities/financial-challenges
Our medium to long-term objectives are to strengthen the role of clinicians (such as doctors, nurses and pharmacists) in planning local health services so that we can meet the requirements of the government’s proposals to change the way that the NHS, and its budget, is managed.
We are also delivering a QIPP programme. QIPP stands for quality, innovation, productivity and prevention. The QIPP programme, launched by the Department of Health, asks NHS organisations to improve the quality of care they deliver while making efficiency savings. Find out more at www.dh.gov.uk/en/Healthcare/Qualityandproductivity
