The Scottish government announced that up to £8.8 million will be used to rollout Closed Loop System technology this year to benefit children living with Type 1 Diabetes, as well as increasing the provision of these life changing technologies for adults with this condition.

It uses a glucose sensor linked to an insulin pump to automatically calculate how much insulin should be delivered.

This removes the burden of people needing to calculate their insulin dosage and take injections.

A national team will enable training, education and support to be given remotely from health professionals, including Diabetes specialist nurses and dietitians, as well as peer support from others living with diabetes.

Cabinet Secretary Neil Gray spoke to staff at the new Usher Institute building at Edinburgh University. During his speech he outlined his vision for how technology and innovation can help make the NHS more sustainable in the future.

Mr Gray said: “Closed loop systems are an incredible asset for those living with Type 1 Diabetes. It not only improves sugar control and reduces the risk of long term complications, but also removes a lot of the burden that people living with type 1 Diabetes face on a day to day basis.

“The use of this technology can make it much easier for people to manage their Diabetes, greatly reducing the risk of the health complications that can be associated with the condition.

“This is an example of the kind of innovation that can help transform healthcare, equipping the NHS to meet the challenges it currently faces. It will also greatly improve the lives of people living with Diabetes, particularly children and their parents.”