Diabetes Care: Specialized nurses are needed

Specialized diabetes nurses are essential for effective Type 2 diabetes management, providing vital support for lifestyle changes and self-care. However, many Finnish welfare regions are currently "saving" money by reducing diabetes care resources. This approach, which involves cutting diabetes nurse positions and assigning their duties to nurses without specialized training, is counterproductive. A Diabetes Association survey indicates that a majority of healthcare professionals find diabetes nurse reception resources insufficient.

The current practices for organizing diabetes care vary, and not all patients have access to a diabetes nurse. Instead of reducing services, experts advocate for strengthening the availability of diabetes nurses and enhancing their training. A national, unified specialized training program for nurses in diabetes care is needed. A 2024 Ministry of Social Affairs and Health report identified diabetes care as a critical nursing specialty requiring more specially trained nurses due to increasing patient needs and rapidly evolving treatment methods and technology.

Diabetes care requires specialized nurses throughout a patient's life, across various healthcare settings. The multi-billion euro costs associated with diabetes can be managed effectively through prevention and good care. Patients need skilled diabetes nurses who have adequate time to engage with them, guide them in complex self-care, and build their confidence in managing the disease, even in challenging situations.