Ireland Publishes First National Diabetes Strategy Amid "Significant Disparities" in Care

Ireland has published its first national strategy for diabetes, revealing "significant disparities" in access to specialized resources, technology, young adult services, and consistent regional care. The report highlights major staffing gaps across all disciplines of core diabetes teams, noting, for example, only 3 endocrinologist whole-time equivalents in HSE West and North West acute hospitals against a target of 15.5.

The strategy acknowledges challenges in meeting ambitious staffing targets due to graduate pipeline issues, recruitment and retention difficulties, budget constraints, and regional resource allocation. It recommends strengthening prevention and early detection, addressing staffing deficits, improving workforce planning, and focusing on high-need groups to enhance care accessibility.

Diabetes affects over 6% of the Irish population, with prevalence increasing due to an aging population, sedentary lifestyles, and rising obesity rates. Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill stated the strategy aims for equitable access to high-standard care for all people with diabetes, regardless of location. The HSE will finalize an implementation plan following the report's publication.