I have groundbreaking NHS tech inside me – but then it failed (Independent, 13 September 2024)

Summary

In this article for the Independent, James Moore describes his experience of a diabetes technology failure and outlines the risks associated with these medical devices. James has type 1 diabetes and was using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track his blood glucose levels via an app on his iPhone. The graph showed that his blood glucose had been within the target range for many days. However, after noticing a lack of response from the CGM, he checked his blood sugar using a 'finger prick' test and discovered that his blood glucose level was actually dangerously high. Although James managed to get his levels back under control, he notes that it could have been much worse, had he not realised the error. Having high blood glucose for a period of time can lead to dangerous and life-threatening complications. The article also looks at the risks associated with insulin pump failures. James notes the huge benefits of wider access to diabetes technology, but highlights the need for healthcare professionals to ensure patients understand the risks and how to manage them.

Content

Related reading

• Diabetes tech: Do national aspirations and local practice align?
• Diabetes technology is life-changing, but we need to be prepared when it fails - A blog by Andrew Stroud
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• Diabetes - What the tech? poster (June 2024)