Although patients are predominately in charge of self-managing their diabetes once diagnosed, the team at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital are on hand on an outpatient basis, to answer any questions that patients might have and offer guidance to ensure patients are coping appropriately.
Following receipt of written referrals from a GP or consultant, patients can attend the unit for diabetes education and a full health history review.

• Patients are shown how to test their blood sugar regularly
• Record the readings and make notes in their dairy
• Look for patterns of blood glucose readings they would like to improve and prepare questions for the team

The DAFNE Education programme is also available to patients with Type 1 diabetes. The aim of the programme is to enhance flexibility from a patient’s perspective. The freedoms that DAFNE promotes, in terms of diet, are proving it extremely popular.

Diabetes management is also provided to those with Type 2 diabetes and patients using Insulin pump devices. There is also a mobile telephone support service provided by the specialist nurses.