The diabetes dietitians see patients in the diabetes clinics, which are based on the 3rd Floor of the Royal Free Hospital (kidney,urology and diabetes centre). They also see pregnant women with diabetes in the joint endocrine/ antenatal clinic and are involved with the transition clinic, which provides a service to young people with diabetes who are transferring from paediatric to adult care. In addition they hold a weekly clinic at Edgware Community Hospital.
The dietitians work closely with the diabetes specialist nurses, psychologist and medical team to manage not just the biochemical aspects of the condition but the “whole person” with diabetes. The team manages those with type 1 diabetes (including those on insulin pumps), type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
Advice and support can be given to help:
- Optimise blood glucose levels (this may include carbohydrate counting for those on insulin)
- Manage weight, blood pressure and blood lipids
In addition to individualised advice, the diabetes service provides a structured education programme for those with type 1 diabetes. This course mirrors a DAFNE (Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating) programme and has proved to give a positive improvement in quality of life and a significant reduction in HbA1c and hypoglycaemia for the majority of those who attend. Further information about DAFNE can be found at www.dafne.uk.com