We have had a regional diabetic register for several years, and like
everyone else, cervical cytology and mammography registers too.
It is used primarily for outcomes audit (not process or intermediate outcome
like HbA1c which is done by practices) and as an informal prompt to
practices. Without it assessment of progress towards targets, eg St Vincent,
is impossible to measure. Although handled by regional diabetes physician it
does not equate to giving him access to care (or money!) of these patients.
In areas where retinal screening is carried out on a regional basis eg by
photography it is presumably also invaluable.
Diabetologists need to work with practices, supporting and educating the
majority of able ones and making alternatives available for others. Your
local lot could be pointed at either Bishop Auckland or Dumfries for working
examples.
Chris
Chris Burton
GP; Sanquhar Dumfriesshire
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask]
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of
[log in to unmask]
Sent: 19 June 1998 22:35
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: diabetic centres
I'm getting a bit of 'flack' from my HA for voicing local GPs
opposition to a diabetic centre at the local trust. I think the
director of public health got a tad upset when I pointed out that one
of his main initiatives was to improve equality and equity of access
to health services and a diabetic centre wouldn't really fufill
this objective for diabetics who live at the HAs periphery.
I pointed out that there are 41 diabetic centres i.e. surgeries and
perhaps some investment in them was more appropriate.
Also raised an objection to a district diabetic register on the
grounds of patient confidentiality and unnecessary bureacracy.
Any arguments for or against a central diabetic centre and register
welcome.
Dr David J Plews
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