Minister Varadkar launched new ICGP integrated care guidelines for the management of type 2 diabetes in 2015

Minister for Health Leo Varadkar launched on 4 February new integrated care guidelines for the management of type 2 diabetes in general practice developed by the ICGP. The guidelines are supported by the HSE and were developed in conjunction with the National Clinical Programme Diabetes Working Group.

Minister Varadkar said, “I commend the ICGP for developing these guidelines for integrated diabetes care. I want to shift the emphasis in our health service away from an ‘illness model’ dependent on care in hospitals to a model where primary care services are strengthened and health and wellbeing are promoted. We have already launched a Diabetes Cycle of Care for adult patients with type 2 diabetes who hold a medical card or GP visit card. To date, over 66,000 patients with diabetes have been registered for the service. Diabetes is increasing in Ireland and these guidelines from the ICGP will be invaluable for GPs in providing care to patients.”

Mr John Hennessy, HSE National Director for Primary Care, said, “I welcome these comprehensive integrated care guidelines for patients with diabetes which have been developed in partnership with clinical stakeholders, and I want to acknowledge the work of all involved. There is much evidence to indicate that a strong primary care system can exert a positive influence on appropriateness of care and on outcomes for diabetes patients – the more integrated the care provided, the better the outcome for the patients.

(Ref:  icgp.ie)