Statement From The American Diabetes Association On Court Ruling To Deny Care To Children With Diabetes

Main Category: Diabetes
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health
Article Date: 18 Nov 2008 - 3:00 PST

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The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is extremely disappointed with the recent California Superior Court ruling striking down a provision of an agreement between the ADA and the California Department of Education that would ensure students with diabetes are safe at school and during school activities.

The provision at issue allowed for trained non-licensed school personnel in California to administer insulin when a nurse was not available. The American Nurses Association (ANA) and several California nurse groups brought suit seeking to prevent this care from taking place, despite the severe shortage of nurses in the state. The ANA position is at odds with that of the health care professionals who have devoted their lives to caring for children with diabetes and the families who love them. These groups agree that non-medical school personnel can -- and should -- be trained to safely administer insulin at school when a nurse is not present.

The decision by the court is not in the best interests of children with diabetes and the American Diabetes Association will continue to work until children with diabetes in California and throughout our country are safe at school.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit http://www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

American Diabetes Association