"Diabetes care at Sheffield Northern General"

I have recently been referred to this hospital to help manage my condition of Type 1 diabetes, having previously been managed at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

The level of care and support from the diabetes team at Sheffield is second to none.

My first visit to see the consultant lasted over 2 hours, part of this time was reviewing my case notes, identifying my training needs and working out solutions to current issues being experienced.

At all times I was treated as an equal, my concerns listened to and strategies decided on together. At the end of the meeting a summary of decisions made was reiterated, a number of blood tests taken and I was asked when I would like to have the next meeting. I never felt rushed to leave and they wanted to be sure that all my questions had been answered to my satisfaction before I left.

Subsequent to this I received an email detailing my blood results which was followed up with a 5 page letter in the post detailing the whole meeting, a summary of actions agreed and by blood results.

My next visit was to see the Diabetic Specialist Nurse - again a meeting over two hours in length. We examined together my recent blood glucose readings, insulin doses and carbohydrate intake. Insights were offered and discussed on how best to tweak my insulin doses to improve my control. At no time did I feel like I was getting a "school report". I was with someone that had interest in listening to me and my needs, offering helpful tips and suggestions to improve my blood glucose control. A superb collaborative effort. Again I was asked when I wanted to come back and an appointment agreed for the end of the month.

I know future meetings will be much shorter than the time afforded to me on these two recent visits, however I have confidence that I will be given the time I need. I am very much looking forward to future meetings with the consultant and DSN.