David Stewart MSP

Local MSP David Stewart, Labour, who is also his party’s shadow Health Minister is delighted that NHS Western Isles have approved the dispensing of the diabetes glucose monitoring system – Freestyle libre, which allows diabetics to monitor their glucose levels in a much more discreet, free and easy manner with little inconvenience whatsoever.

This is a provision NHS Orkney and NHS Shetland are also looking into.

David Stewart said:

“I asked the [Scottish] Government Minister, Aileen Campbell MSP, back in June within the Scottish Parliament, which NHS Boards in Scotland offered this advanced system and I was advised that seven Boards did, but none of those were in the Highlands & Islands”.

“I am delighted that NHS Western Isles have taken the lead within the Highlands & Islands and now I would like to see the other Boards do likewise. I will be making contact with them to establish if they have made a decision on this matter yet and if not I will be encouraging them to seriously consider dispensing this device on prescription.

 “ Many diabetic constituents and their families have made contact over the months with me seeking to learn when and if the Freestyle libre will be available on prescription.”