The Ministry of Health and Social Development is leading the way to standardise the care and treatment of persons with diabetes through the launch of guidelines for the management of the disease.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Ronald Georges said that the guidelines were introduced by the Caribbean Public Health Agency CARPHA and are designed to ensure that persons with diabetes will get the same standard of care regardless of which health care facility they seek treatment.

“At the Territory level this will improve outcomes for patients, reduce complications and improve their quality of life while reducing costs and improving health care. We are very excited for the possibilities of this programme,” Dr. Georges stated.

The project will commence with the launch of the guidelines, but it will also be re-enforced with continuous education in the form of CME (Continuing Medical Education) sessions which will address standardised assessment, care and treatment for persons with diabetes.

“We want these guidelines to be seamlessly implemented within our healthcare system.  To do this, our focus will be on offering continuous education sessions, building collaborations with the Diabetes Association and clinicians as well as empowering patients to be more proactive and vested in their own care, Dr. Georges said. 

The CMO added that the aim is to get to the point where clinical audits will be conducted to ensure that the guidelines are being implemented and further education and training will be provided where necessary to ensure sustainability.

The Launch of the CARPHA Guidelines for the Management of Diabetes in Primary Care in the Caribbean will be held at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital on Thursday, July 20 at 5:30 p.m. 

Clinicians, persons with diabetes, caregivers and persons who have a vested interest in the topic are welcome to attend. Two CME hours will be available.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to protecting and promoting the health of the people of the Virgin Islands.