Prognosis and Duration of disabling effects
- There is no cure for Diabetes. The condition is managed by insulin, tablets or diet.
- The only problem with self- care in a small number of people with uncomplicated diabetes is hypoglycaemic attacks without warning. This is more likely to occur with longstanding diabetes, as neuropathy may mask the symptoms. Usually good glycaemic control can be achieved within 6 months, but if this persists, there is unlikely to be any improvement, where this has been present for 2 years.
- The main disabling effects for diabetes are due to complications affecting the eyes, large and small blood vessels, and the kidneys. The prognosis will then depend on the complication.
If evidence shows that the customer has ischaemic heart disease as a result of Diabetes, then also consult the Ischaemic Heart disease guidance for additional information.
If evidence shows that the customer has peripheral neuropathy as a result of Diabetes, then also consult the Peripheral Vascular disease guidance for additional information.
If evidence shows that the customer has retinopathy / cataracts as a result of Diabetes, then also consult the Vision guidance for additional information.
| Impairment | Date of Onset | Award Period |
|---|---|---|
|
Diabetes – type 1 (insulin dependent) |
Less than 5 years More than 5 years |
2 year award Indefinite award |
|
Diabetes – type 2 (insulin or non-insulin dependent) |
Less than 5 years More than 5 years |
2 year award Indefinite award |
|
Diabetes – type not known / other |
Less than 5 years More than 5 years |
2 year award Indefinite award |
|
Diabetes with renal complications and awaiting renal transplant surgery |
N/A |
2 year award |
|
Diabetes with peripheral neuropathy |
N/A |
Indefinite |
|
Diabetes with ischaemic heart disease on a waiting list for surgery (Angioplasty / CABG) |
N/A |
1 year award |
|
Diabetes with ischaemic heart disease - no surgery planned |
N/A |
Indefinite |
|
Diabetes with visual complications - Cataracts |
N/A |
1 year award |
|
Diabetes with visual complications – Retinopathy You may need to consider whether H/R Mob SVI deeming provisions are satisfied. Click on the link |
N/A |
Indefinite |
|
Diabetes with any complications and no surgery planned for any |
N/A |
Indefinite award |
All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.
Amended April 2011
