Residents who have received treatment for type 1 or type 2 diabetes have been invited to tell their story.

The Ministry of Health said its patient care survey, which runs until September 10, would assist in collecting perspectives on people’s experiences while accessing services related to diabetes care.

It is aimed at developing a better understanding the journey of diabetes patients through Bermuda’s health system, and strengthening their care experience.

The survey is part of the ministry’s Diabetes Integrated Care Pathway programme, with a multidisciplinary working group led by chairman Andrew Jamieson.

It receives support from the ministry’s Universal Health Coverage Project Management office.

Dr Jamieson said: “Around the world, all types of diabetes are increasing. In particular, type 2 diabetes is an extremely common and potentially preventable health issue in Bermuda that must be addressed.

“This task, however, can only be successful if undertaken collaboratively across the health system.”

He noted that importance of input from patients and service providers.

He added: “With this survey, we would like to hear from as many people living with type 1 or 2 diabetes as possible.

“So please take the opportunity to complete it or share it with anyone you know who may live with diabetes.”

Feedback will inform the development of the diabetes and metabolic disease patient care pathway, and assist in improving experiences and outcomes.

A government spokeswoman said the pathway programme took a collaborative approach to managing care for individuals with specific needs, outlining a patient’s care journey and specifying what happen and who is responsible at each stage.

The process includes working group sessions and one-on-one interviews.

Sixteen patients and 18 health service providers have been interviewed and three workshops and six focus groups have been held.

Participants include specialist health providers from fields such as endocrinology, pharmacy, dietetics, diabetes education, podiatry and nursing.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “Implementing the Diabetes Integrated Care Pathway, based on the 2023 Joint Strategic Needs Assessment findings, is essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing the impact of these conditions on costs and quality of life.

“Collaboration among health system stakeholders is key to understanding patient care journeys, identifying challenges and opportunities and enhancing care and health outcomes.”

She said although Bermuda lacked a comprehensive surveillance system for non-communicable diseases, it was estimated that 13 per cent of the island’s population had diabetes.

The survey can be accessed through the link Diabetes Disease: Survey for Diabetic Patients and Caregivers