A HEALTH watchdog described new NHS funding for life-saving diabetes monitoring technology as a 'fundamental breakthrough' that would benefit local diabetics.

Type 1 diabetics in Worcestershire are not currently eligible for the FreeStyle Libre blood sugar testing patch and reader.

Healthwatch Worcestershire and rugby star Chris Pennell previously campaigned against the NHS 'postcode lottery' that deprives local patients of the equipment.

However, NHS England recently announced that the technology, which is seen as more convenient and effective than finger prick testing, would be rolled out across the country from April 2019.

Peter Pinfield, chair of Healthwatch Worcestershire, described the funding pledge as 'a fundamental breakthrough' for insulin-dependent diabetics in the county.

He said: "The postcode lottery that existed has been removed, we are looking forward to the Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) [which buy health services] implementing the new accessibility rules.

"We are going to ask the CCGs for clarification on the rules and when we can expect the new policy to be introduced.

"Healthwatch would want that to happen as quickly as arrangements at our local GP practices can be made.

"If you are a Type 1 diabetic ask your GP about the new service and let Healthwatch know if you hit any problems."

He added that there was still work to be done with Worcestershire's CCGs to work out who was eligible for the patch.

Mr Pinfield said: "Some CCGs are interpreting the rules to prioritise who gets it and who doesn't.

"Our understanding is if you are a Type 1 diabetic dependent on having your blood levels checked that is enough for entitlement."

He also praised other CCGs around the country which are paying for Libre, without specific funding from NHS England.

A spokesman for Worcestershire's CCGs said: “We will work with local diabetes teams to consider how potentially eligible patients with Type 1 diabetes in Worcestershire could access this treatment from April 2019.”

It is thought a quarter of Type 1 diabetics will qualify for Libre.