Diabetes Group Appointments

As part of improving how we deliver diabetes care, some of your routine diabetes reviews may now be offered as a group appointments rather than a traditional one-to-one appointment.

This means you may be invited to attend a small group session with other patients who also have diabetes.

You will still be cared for by a qualified Diabetes Practitioner e.g. Nurse or Pharmacist.

A group appointment is a friendly, structured clinic where:

• A healthcare professional leads the session
• Patients with diabetes attend together in a small group 
• Common topics are discussed (for example: blood sugar, medications, lifestyle, complications prevention) 
• You can ask questions and learn from others 
• Your individual results and care plan are still reviewed 

During the session, you can expect:

• A brief individual review of your diabetes results 
• Group discussion and education 
• Time to ask questions (you can also choose to listen only) 
• Support with managing your condition 

Appointments usually last longer than a standard review, giving more time for discussion and learning.

No. You are welcome to simply listen if you prefer. There is no pressure to share personal information.

Yes. All participants are asked to respect confidentiality. The session is run in a safe and professional environment by clinical staff.

Group appointments have been shown to:

• Improve understanding of diabetes 
• Give patients more time with clinicians 
• Allow shared learning and support 
• Help people feel more confident managing their health 

Many patients find them helpful and reassuring.

Yes. Your clinical information and treatment plan will still be reviewed individually during the session, and you can request a one-to-one appointment if needed.

The group will be led by your usual diabetes care team, including a qualified clinician such as a Diabetes Practitioner or GP with specialist interest.

If you are suitable for a group appointment, you will be offered this when booking your next diabetes review following your HCA appointment (this is the initial review appointment, where you have blood tests and a foot check.) 

You can choose whether or not to take part.

If you have questions before your appointment, please speak to the HCA at your initial review appointment.