GPs diabetes workshop

[Northerner]

I attended a GPs workshop yesterday afternoon as a patient representative. The workshop was an initial stage in trying to work out a plan for improving the services and outcomes for diabetes patients in Southampton now that the GPs are going to be in charge instead of the PCT. I found it really encouraging - some excellent ideas came out of it and the GPs really seemed to take on board my comments and those of the other patient reps. Rest assured that I made them well aware of the main issues that I have picked up on from forum members over the years, such as education and the tools (i.e. test strips) to learn how to manage diabetes, plus the manner in which diagnosis is delivered which I feel should be positive and encouraging rather than doom and gloom or simply disinterest. I also stressed the importance of peer support via mentoring and (trusted!) forums (of course!) 🙂

If any of you get the opportunity to become involved in similar exercises I'd highly recommend it - we have a strong voice in saying how to improve our services and treatments 🙂

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Great work Alan! I'd feel very happy if there was anyone saying those things to in an equivalent group where I live 🙂

 

[Caroline]

brilliant, more power to us

 

[Northerner]

Great work Alan! I'd feel very happy if there was anyone saying those things to in an equivalent group where I live 🙂

Might be worth having a word with your consultant if there is any need for patient reps in your area Mike, it was my consultant who originally asked me if I would help. With all this GP commissioning in progress I imagine there are a lot of GP groups looking for input from informed patient groups 🙂