THE 28,000 diabetes patients in North Yorkshire can now be treated in their homes rather than in hospital emergency departments if they suffer a low blood sugar attack.

A new system will see hypoglycaemic patients visited, assessed and stabilised by Yorkshire Ambulance crews before being referred to their GP or a specialist nurse.

More serious cases will still be taken to accident and emergency, though NHS North Yorkshire and York managers hope the system will help diabetes patients manage their condition better themselves and reduce the chances of them having a “hypo” in the future.

Dr Vicky Pleydell, a North Yorkshire GP and chairwoman of the trust’s clinical executive, said: “It isn’t always necessary for patients who have a hypo to call 999 or be taken to the emergency department, as many could be better supported in their own homes.”

Sue North, a diabetes specialist nurse, said: “Our team of specialist diabetes nurses will liaise closely with the ambulance service about patients who are experiencing hypos, so we can make sure they get the help they need as soon as possible.

“We would then contact patients by telephone within a few days, make an assessment and provide advice on managing hypos so they can be avoided in the future.

“The team will also refer patients back to their GP practice, informing them of the episode, any treatment and advice given and recommend an urgent follow-up if necessary.”

A hypoglycaemic episode occurs when there is an abnormally low level of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. When glucose levels are too low, the body does not have enough energy to carry out its functions.

Some patients will have a warning that their blood glucose levels are too low, giving them time to correct it. Typical early warning signs are feeling hungry, trembling or shakiness, and sweating.

The immediate treatment for an attack is to take a high glycaemic index liquid, such as a high-energy drink or fruit juice, or chew Dextrose tablets.