Thousands of diabetics are dying every year because of failings in the NHS, according to a report published today.
Up to 24,000 people die from avoidable causes related to diabetes, the National Audit Office (NAO) says. Many more suffer the avoidable amputation of toes or feet as a result of poor care, and fewer than half of people with diabetes receive the recommended standard of care.
The spending watchdog criticises the Department of Health for not understanding the real cost of diabetes care to the NHS. The department estimates that it spends about £1.3 billion a year, but the NAO