A one-year intensive weight loss programme delivered nationally and locally across Scotland which aims to help those living with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) to achieve and maintain remission.
The programmes involves three key stages:
- Total Diet Replacement (TDR) of nutritional soups and shakes
- Food reintroduction
- Long term weight-loss maintenance
Regular 1:1 and group appointments are provided virtually throughout the programme. The programme is designed by Counterweight Ltd and based on ground-breaking evidence from the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial opens a new window (DiRECT).
The National Digital Programme will be a faster pathway to treatment; this is the recommended first choice if you are suitable. Referral is via GP and further information can be found here. NHS Scotland – Type 2 Diabetes Programme | Counterweight
The current criteria for this programme is:
> Adults aged 18-65 years
>T2D diagnosis in past 0-6 years
>HbA1c ≥48mmol/mol at last check within 12 months, if on diet alone or
> HbA1c ≥43mmol/mol if on treatment with oral hypoglycemic agents
>Ethnic Minorities: Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or above
>White Caucasian: Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or above
Please note if you are on Insulin you are not suitable for the programme. Other exclusion criteria may apply.
Get in touch
The national programme may not be suitable to everyone. The NHS Lothian local remission team is more suited to those who:
- Do not think they can engage in a fully remote digital pathway – they may be unable to use an app, chat function and video calls for the appointments on a device like a smartphone, tablet or laptop.
- Have an HbA1c greater than 87mmol/mol providing they meet the rest of the inclusion criteria
- Have/have had a disordered relationship with food (for example occasional binge or emotional eating)
Referrals to the national and local programme is via GP.
All referrals will be triaged by a Dietitian to ensure this is the most suitable intervention for you. For more information please see the Type 2 Diabetes remission through Counterweight Plus leaflet.
Email: loth.weightmanagement@nhs.scot
Phone: 0131 537 9169
Woodlands House
Astley Ainslie Hospital
74 Canaan Lane
Edinburgh
EH9 2TB
