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Important Update: Information relevant for patients in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire who received HbA1c results between 25 June 2024 and 2 December 2024
What is an HbA1c Test?
The HbA1c test is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. This test is important for managing diabetes as it helps to understand how well your blood sugar levels are being controlled over time.
This information is for people who had their HbA1c analysis between 25 June 2024 and 2 December 2024. These individuals will be receiving a letter from their GP if this impacts on them and it will detail the next steps to take. If you haven’t received a letter, this matter isn’t relevant to you, at this time.
Background:
There is a potential that some people, who were tested, may have received HbA1c results higher than they actually were during the time period indicated.
This may have meant that person was encouraged to undertake lifestyle changes or change their medicines. These individuals will receive a letter explaining if this is relevant to them and what it will mean. This information is supplementary to that information.
The inaccuracy in HbA1c readings was due to a laboratory machine error. Everybody involved, including the hospital and GP practices, have acted in good faith to address and resolve the problem. We’re really sorry for the inconvenience and any concern this issue may cause - we are continuing to work closely with all concerned and we’re confident that the issue has been fully identified, reviewed and managed appropriately. No other tests or systems, whether connected to diabetes or other conditions, are impacted.
Our priority is to ensure patient safety – please note we currently believe the clinical risk level associated with this issue to be minimal – however, it is still important if patients have received a letter inviting them to a retest, to book the blood test as explained in the letter. There will be patients who have received a letter advising them that no action is needed, please do follow the advice given.
Data Review:
We have thoroughly reviewed and analysed a significant amount of complex data from various external and independent sources. This data has been shared with an expert steering committee, including representatives from the Local Medical Committee (LMC), primary care, Joined Up Care Derbyshire, and Derbyshire Pathology. The review has shown that patients receiving their test results between 25 June 2024 and 2 December 2024 may have received inaccurate results.
Children/Paediatric Treatment and Impact:
All patients, regardless of age, are included in this review. The paediatric team rarely sends HbA1c monitoring tests to the labs, as they use a different type of testing.
This issue does not impact on all GP practices – the list of those we’re working with includes:
- Ashover Medical Centre
- Barlborough Medical Practice
- Baslow Health Centre
- Blue Dykes Surgery
- Brimmington Surgery
- Calow & Brimmington Medical Practice
- Castle Street Medical Centre
- Chatsworth Road Medical Centre
- Clay Cross Medical Centre
- Credas Medical Centre
- Dronfield Medical Centre
- Emmett Carr Surgery
- Evelyn Medical Centre
- Eyam SurgeryFamily Friendly Surgery
- Imperial Road Surgery
- Inspire Health
- Killamarsh Medical Practice
- Lime Grove Medical Centre
- Limes Medical Centre
- Newbold Surgery
- North Wingfield Medical Centre
- Oakhill Medical Practice
- Peak & Dales Medical Partnership
- Royal Primary Care East
- Royal Primary Care South (Blue Dykes Surgery)
- Royal Primary Care West
- Shires Healthcare
- Springs Health Centre
- St Lawrence Road Surgery
- STAFFA Health
- Stubley Medical Centre
- Surgery at Wheatbridge
- Valleys Medical Partnership
- Welbeck Road Health Centre
- Whittington Moor Surgery
- Wingerworth Medical Centre
1. What is HbA1c?
HbA1c is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.
2. Why are the HbA1c readings being reviewed?
We identified potential inaccuracies in HbA1c readings taken between 25 June 2024 and 2 December 2024. We are reviewing these readings to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.
3. How do I know if my HbA1c reading was affected?
If your HbA1c test was conducted during the impacted dates, it may need to be reviewed. We will contact affected patients directly with further instructions.
4. What should I do if I am affected?
If you are affected, you will receive communication from us with detailed instructions. In the meantime, continue to follow your current treatment plan and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
5. Are children affected by this issue?
While the paediatric team rarely sends HbA1c tests to the labs, there has been an increase in referrals from general practice. HbA1c should not be used for diagnosing diabetes in children under 18. If your child has symptoms of diabetes, please seek immediate medical advice.
6. Will this affect my diabetes diagnosis or treatment?
We are working to ensure that any inaccuracies are corrected. If your diagnosis or treatment needs to be adjusted, we will provide you with the necessary information and support.
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
· Feeling very thirsty
· Peeing more frequently than usual, particularly at night
· Feeling very tired
· Losing weight without trying
· Itching around the penis or vagina, or frequent episodes of thrush
· Cuts or wounds taking longer to heal
· Blurred vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your GP as soon as possible. For more information, visit the NHS website on diabetes.