Dr Kevin Fernando wins fully funded place on South Korea diabetes exchange to foster UK advancements

Dr Kevin Fernando, a GP at NHS Lothian, has secured a coveted place at The Diabetes Exchange South Korea 2026, aiming to bring innovative diabetes care insights to the UK after engaging with South Korean clinicians and technology experts.

Spirit Health has named Dr Kevin Fernando, a portfolio GP at NHS Lothian, as the recipient of a fully funded place on The Diabetes Exchange – South Korea 2026. The company said the competition for the place was strong, with judges highlighting the standard of applications from healthcare professionals across the UK.

The exchange is designed as an international forum for UK diabetes clinicians and overseas specialists to compare approaches, discuss real-world practice and examine new developments in diabetes care. This year’s programme, running from November 2-5, is being delivered with i-SENS and will give participants the chance to engage with South Korean clinicians, researchers and diabetes technology experts.

Spirit Health said Fernando stood out for his work on diabetes education, particularly in helping primary care professionals understand and interpret continuous glucose monitoring data. Clare Leek, the company’s head of marketing, said his application showed a strong commitment to practical education, contributed to UK consensus guidance and helped build clinicians’ confidence in diabetes technology.

Fernando said he was delighted to have been chosen and that he hoped to return with ideas that could strengthen care in the UK. As part of the visit, he will also tour the i-SENS continuous glucose monitoring manufacturing facility, giving him behind-the-scenes access to the technology on which much of the exchange is expected to focus. Spirit Health said it intends to continue the initiative as a long-term international programme aimed at sharing knowledge and building professional links.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.