HSE Integrated Diabetes Service improving access to care and reducing waiting lists across Galway, Roscommon and Mayo

Ahead of World Diabetes Day on 14 November, the HSE West Integrated Care Chronic Disease Hubs are highlighting the importance of prevention, education and multidisciplinary care in tackling diabetes and supporting healthier communities across Galway, Roscommon and Mayo.

An estimated 300,000 people in Ireland are living with diabetes, with more than 550 million adults affected worldwide. As rates of diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease continue to rise, early intervention and community-based support are essential to preventing complications and improving long-term health.

Working in partnership with local GPs, the Hubs provide Consultant-led clinics and integrated care through multidisciplinary teams of Clinical Nurse Specialists, Dietitians, Physiotherapists and Podiatrists, bringing specialist support closer to patients.

Key initiatives include the Diabetes Prevention Programme, which supports people at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Early results show improvements in weight, blood glucose control and cardiovascular risk factors.

The DESMOND (Diabetes Education and Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed) Programme is also improving access to diabetes education and reducing waiting times. Between November 2025 and August 2026, the waiting list across Galway, Roscommon and Mayo decreased from 856 to 591 people, a reduction of 31%.

Through structured education and self-management support, DESMOND helps people living with Type 2 diabetes build the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to manage their condition and make informed decisions about their health.

Anthony Callaghan, from Clarinbridge, Co. Galway, who took part in the programme, spoke about its positive impact on his understanding and management of Type 2 diabetes, particularly in relation to diet, exercise and medication.

“I learned that managing Type 2 diabetes requires a balance between medication, diet and lifestyle. The group sessions improved my understanding of what to eat and what to avoid. I also gained the confidence to establish and maintain a regular exercise routine, following the improvements I experienced through physiotherapy. The knowledge and information I gained have also helped my GP and the Diabetes Centre at University Hospital Galway to fine-tune my medication, supporting improvements in my overall health.”

The physiotherapy-led Diabetes Exercise and Lifestyle Programme (DELP) has also demonstrated improvements in fitness, mobility, physical function and blood glucose control.

Bernie Kelly, Senior Physiotherapist, West Galway and City Integrated Care Chronic Disease Hub said, “DELP is an evidence-based programme supporting people with Type 2 diabetes through structured strengthening, balance and cardiovascular exercises. It aims to improve physical function, blood glucose control and overall health while promoting sustainable lifestyle changes and long-term physical activity.”

Siobháin Warren, Dietitian, West Galway and City Integrated Care Chronic Disease Hub, said, “The Diabetes Prevention Programme helps people take action early, providing the knowledge, support and confidence to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. One of the most rewarding aspects is helping people make sustainable lifestyle changes that support lifelong health and wellbeing.”

Dr Tomas Griffin, Regional Consultant Lead for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, HSE West and North West, added, “World Diabetes Day is an opportunity to highlight that much can be done to prevent Type 2 diabetes and improve outcomes for those already living with the condition.

“Our focus is on identifying people at risk, supporting sustainable lifestyle changes and ensuring access to the right education and specialist care at the right time. The results from programmes such as Diabetes Prevention and DESMOND demonstrate the positive impact of early intervention and structured support.

“Through our multidisciplinary approach, people can access a range of expertise within their own communities, helping them feel confident and supported in managing their health.”

These programmes form part of the HSE West Integrated Care Chronic Disease Hubs’ wider commitment to strengthening integrated care, improving patient pathways and ensuring people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.