A concerned mother has called on NHS Grampian to bolster services for diabetic children in Moray, following fears that having just one specialist nurse could leave youngsters at risk.
Jaye Thomson’s 11-year-old daughter Aaliyah was diagnosed with type one diabetes last August, and her family have faced difficulties, due to the unpredictable nature of the condition.
But a lack of support in Moray has left her concerned that the NHS’s staffing problems are having an impact on some of the region’s most vulnerable children.
Ms Thomson, 29, said: “Diabetes is a 24-hour condition, and you never know when you will need local support.
“Aaliyah struggles to keep her levels under control, and she needs a lot of care.
“The nurse we have is fantastic, but she’s stretched so thin.”
Ms Thomson and Aaliyah stay in Elgin and attend clincs at the town’s Dr Gray’s Hospital every two to three months, where they meet the resident specialist.
The 11-year-old has had to test her blood five times a day, and is injected with insulin four times a day to maintain her health.
Ms Thomson added: “That keeps her steady, but the condition can still make her feel weak and unwell.”
She was sufficiently concerned to contact Moray MSP Richard Lochhead after Dr Gray’s one specialist went on holiday, leaving the region with no cover.
She said: “That was a very worrying time, as there are some occasions where you really need to see an expert.”
The Holyrood politician has now taken the concerns of Ms Thomson and other parents like her to NHS Grampian.
Mr Lochhead responded: “Diabetes is a complex condition which can be difficult to manage, and it is vital that children in Moray living with it receive the support and care they need.
“There are concerns among some parents that their kids are not receiving an equitable service to young patients who are cared for at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
“I’m keen to ensure that NHS Grampian is doing all it can to provide adequate levels of support to families in Moray who are dealing with diabetes.”