Enhanced tech access aims to reduce complications
In a bid to improve the day-to-day lives of people living with type 1 diabetes, the Scottish Government has announced a major expansion in access to cutting-edge diabetes technologies. An additional 2,500 individuals will soon begin receiving life-changing tools designed to help prevent serious health complications associated with the condition. The plan centers on delivering advanced devices and systems that support tighter glucose control, more precise insulin delivery, and better overall disease management.
What technologies are included?
The funding package prioritizes several proven technologies that have transformed diabetes care for many patients. Key components include continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems, which provide real-time glucose data and trends; insulin pumps that deliver precise doses; and hybrid closed-loop systems (often referred to as artificial pancreas technologies) that automatically adjust insulin delivery based on continuous glucose readings. By broadening access to these tools, the program aims to empower individuals to monitor and manage their condition more effectively outside traditional clinic settings.
Why these investments matter
Type 1 diabetes requires constant attention to avoid dangerous highs and lows. When people gain reliable access to modern technologies, they experience several benefits: improved time-in-range for glucose, fewer nocturnal hypoglycemic events, reduced hospital admissions for diabetes-related complications, and greater freedom to pursue education, work, and personal activities. The Scottish Government’s investment reflects a growing consensus that technology-enabled care can lower long-term healthcare costs while enhancing quality of life for patients and families.
Impact on daily living
For patients, the practical impact can be profound. CGMs offer continuous feedback without finger-prick testing, helping individuals make informed decisions about meals, activity, and medication. Insulin pumps provide more stable insulin delivery, which can reduce the burden of constant dose calculations. Hybrid closed-loop systems further reduce the burden by automatically adjusting insulin in response to changing glucose levels, offering a sense of steadier control and greater confidence in daily routines.
Funding and implementation details
The additional £6.9 million from Scottish Government funding will be allocated to local health boards to scale up access, ensure equitable distribution across regions, and support training for both patients and healthcare teams. The program includes education on device usage, data interpretation, and ongoing support to address any challenges that arise as more people begin using the technologies. This approach seeks to integrate new tools with existing diabetes care pathways, ensuring a seamless transition for patients and clinicians.
What this means for the future of diabetes care in Scotland
Expanding access to diabetes technologies aligns with broader health strategy goals: reduce health inequalities, improve chronic disease management, and invest in innovations that deliver tangible health and social benefits. By enabling 2,500 more individuals to benefit from these tools, Scotland is taking a significant step toward more proactive, data-driven diabetes care. The initiative also opens doors for ongoing innovation, patient education, and potential future enhancements as devices continue to evolve.
What patients should know
Individuals interested in accessing these technologies should speak with their healthcare team to understand eligibility, device options, and the support available. In many cases, referrals and assessments will determine the most suitable technology mix, balancing medical needs with personal preferences and lifestyle considerations. The goal is to empower patients with the right tools to live healthier, more independent lives while reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.
