The bill for items prescribed to patients with diabetes has nearly doubled since 2005, data from the HSCIC has found. In 2015/16 there were 49.7 million items prescribed for diabetes at a total cost of £956.7 million, up from 27.1 million items costing £513.9 million in 2005/06.
‘These stark figures show the need for a greater focus on preventing Type 2 Diabetes,’ said Helen Donovan, RCN Public Health professional lead. ‘There is a close association between the increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes and the prevention of both is essential. Encouraging healthier lifestyles would not only save the NHS money, it would improve countless lives.’
The bill for diabetes is currently the largest cost for primary care prescribing, taking up 10.6% of the total budget. Of this, Antidiabetic drugs make up 44.2% of the total £956.7 million cost of drugs used in diabetes. The cost in 2015/16 per person ranged from below £310 to the nearest pound in the lowest 25 per cent to above £353 to the nearest pound in the highest 25%.
‘As with other long-term conditions, people with diabetes deserve the right support to properly manage their condition and avoid complications. Nurses play a big role in this, particularly working in the community, but cuts in this area mean many patients are missing out on this vital support.This is bad for the health service’s finances but more importantly it can be devastating for patients,' added Ms Donovan.