Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
07 May 2014 08:35
Experts have accused the NHS of wasting billions of pounds of public money by failing to tackle diabetes early enough
Billions of pounds of public money is being wasted by the NHS as it fails to tackle diabetes early enough, it is warned.
Diabetes UK claims the vast majority of the £9.9 billion used to tackle the blood sugar condition nationwide each year is spent on treating complications that arise from the illness such as kidney damage.
In its report, The Cost of Diabetes, the charity argues that health bosses have failed to learn that early intervention can save taxpayers' money and improve the lives of millions of people living with diabetes.
As much as £7.7 billion goes towards addressing complications, according to the figures, while just £2.1 billion is spent on treating the actual illness itself. The authors point out that a large number of the complications resulting from diabetes could have been prevented if the patient had received good healthcare in the first place.
Late diagnosis or untimely care can lead to people spending extra days in hospital and suffering from kidney and nerve damage as a knock-on effect. This, in turn, also runs up substantial bills for the NHS.
Diabetes UK has recommended a series of measures to improve patient care and ensure money is no longer wasted.
One of these measures is the introduction of better programmes to educate on how to live with and manage diabetes, which it claims could save in the region of £2,200 per patient - equating to hundreds of millions of pounds each year - and lead to a reduction in the number of foot amputations.
Diabetics travelling abroad should protect themselves by taking out adequate travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions. This can provide peace of mind just in case complications develop while on the trip.
A sufferer's eyes, heart, nerves, feet and kidneys can all be affected by the illness.
08 August 2019
Looking to travel back in time? Walk in the footsteps of Zeus and Apollo as you explore some of Greece's most iconic historical sites.
[more...]
Want to explore off the beaten track? Discover your new Grecian paradise in one of these secluded island locations...
Find your favourite Greek food with our guide on how to let your taste buds explore the delicious flavours of Greece.
Ever wondered what life was like in Ancient Greece? Explore the city that many call the birthplace of Western civilisation by visiting these fantastic attractions in the legendary city of Athens.
Which Greek Island should I visit? A common question if you want to experience the beauty of Greece's many islands. Find the answer in our quick guide to ten of the best.
02 August 2019
What's the best beach resort in Portugal? Find out with our guide to some of the best seaside getaways Portugal has to offer...
Want to experience the taste of Portugal? Make sure you're hungry when you try some of these excellent foods that showcase the best of Portuguese cuisine.
Ready to explore one of Central Europe's grandest cities? Check out these must-see attractions in Hungary's beguiling capital, Budapest...
The Hungarian Grand Prix is one of the best motorsport experiences around, and here's everything you need to know if you're going this summer.
17 July 2019
Heading to Porto? Get more out of your visit and explore the best things to eat, drink and do in Portugal's second city with these great tips.
Want to experience a different side of Portugal? Check out one of these great destinations that lie a step or two away from the standard tourist trail...
08 July 2019
Want to taste the real France? Experience the best French food and drink at one of these excellent foodie festivals. Perfect for food and wine lovers everywhere!