Innovative “Super Clinics” Transform Diabetes Care in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

In an advancement for diabetes care, the introduction of new “super clinics” in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is revolutionising the way annual diabetes reviews are conducted for patients. So far, nearly 200 individuals with diabetes have experienced the benefits of these clinics, which aim to simplify, ease, and expedite the process of undergoing essential health checks.

Operated within the East Cornwall primary care network (PCN) area, these super clinics have been established at several locations, including Oak Tree Surgery in Liskeard, Clays Practice in St Austell, and Bosvena Health in Bodmin, with an upcoming clinic scheduled at Veor Surgery in Camborne. This initiative is a collaborative effort among the Integrated Care Board (ICB), Primary Care Networks, Kernow Health CIC, Cornwall Diabetic Eye Screening Programme, Diabetes UK, Volunteer Cornwall, and Cornwall Council.

Traditionally, diabetes patients needed to schedule multiple appointments for their annual review, spanning various health checks. However, the super clinics consolidate nine essential health checks into a single 30-minute appointment, available over the weekend. This approach not only saves time for healthcare professionals but also simplifies the process for patients, who can now receive comprehensive care in one visit.

During these super clinics, patients undergo a series of checks, including blood sugar, blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, urine analysis, weight, BMI, and examinations of the eyes and feet. The clinics also offer vaccinations for shingles, flu, and pneumonia to eligible individuals, enhancing preventive care efforts.

The Bodmin event in January and the St Austell event in November 2023 are notable examples of the clinics’ success. At Bodmin, 59 diabetes patients received their annual review, with additional screenings and referrals for further health advice. St Austell saw 73 patients, with numerous referrals for podiatry support and eye screenings.

The super clinics have received positive feedback from attendees, who appreciate the convenience and efficiency of the service. Patients like Christine, Peter, and Theora have highlighted the ease of having all necessary tests in one location, as well as the valuable advice and support offered by the healthcare team.

Dr. Chris Reid, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ICB, emphasised the clinics’ role in improving diagnosis and care through a more integrated review process. Claire Bolton, Diabetic Lead for Bosvena and 3 Harbour Primary Care Network areas, also praised the innovative approach to diabetes care demonstrated at these events.

With an estimated 35,000 people living with diabetes in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, the super clinics represent a forward-thinking approach to healthcare, offering a model that could potentially be expanded to other areas and services in the future.