Thousands of FreeStyle Libre sensors donated to UK hospitals

Up to 6,500 FreeStyle Libre sensors are to be donated to hospitals across the UK to help staff better care for people with diabetes who are admitted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The world’s leading sensor-based glucose monitoring technology, made by Abbott, will allow frontline healthcare workers to monitor patients’ glucose status and glucose history while in hospital and also remotely once they have been discharged.

The donation will help equip as many as 3,250 at-risk people for a month, so they can go home sooner and stay connected with their healthcare professional post-discharge, helping them to stay well.

Dr Pratik Choudhary, senior lecturer and consultant in diabetes at Kings College Hospital and co-chair of the DTN (Diabetes Technology Network), said: “Recent data show that people with diabetes have an elevated risk of adverse outcomes with COVID-19, which is also linked to their glucose control.

“We are really pleased that Abbott has agreed to our request to help us support patients with diabetes who are admitted to hospital by donating FreeStyle Libre sensors.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been constantly looking for ways to limit unnecessary exposure between ourselves and patients, especially people with diabetes. The use of the FreeStyle Libre system will facilitate frequent monitoring of glucose for those who need it to control their blood glucose. It also allows us to view patient data remotely, supporting timely discharge with safe and effective remote follow-up.”

Neil Harris, general manager of Abbott’s diabetes care business in the UK and Ireland, added: “Providing frontline healthcare professionals and patients with technology and equipment is critical in the fight against COVID-19.

“We’re delighted to make FreeStyle Libre sensors available for hospitalised people living with diabetes, which will help frontline healthcare workers to monitor and manage the glucose levels of these patients better and, at the same time, help limit COVID-19 exposure, helping to keep people safe.”