The Endocrinology Clinic at Akureyri Hospital Celebrates its 10th Anniversary

Since its establishment, the clinic has been an important service for individuals with diabetes and, previously, for those dealing with other endocrine disorders within the service area of Akureyri Hospital (SAk). The Endocrinology Clinic has played a significant role in providing accessible local care and continuity in treatment. The clinic is part of the Medical Outpatient Department, which was formerly known as the General Outpatient Department.

At the beginning, the team consisted of nurses Árún K. Sigurðardóttir and Eva Hilmarsdóttir, endocrinologist Finnbogi Karlsson, and dietitian Borghildur Sigurbergsdóttir. Today, nurses Eva Hilmarsdóttir and Emilía Fönn Andradóttir manage the clinic.

Development of the Service

For several years after its founding, there was a formal collaboration with endocrinologists from the National University Hospital of Iceland. Specialists would travel north twice a month, but over time the service transitioned to remote consultations and collaborative meetings. The agreement expired in April 2023, and work is ongoing to reintroduce specialist involvement. As it stands, the clinic operates as a nurse-led service, with Eva and Emilía sharing one full-time equivalent position.

The clinic primarily serves individuals with diabetes who require insulin therapy or present with complex cases. The nurses also provide consultation to other departments at SAk and regional healthcare institutions. Approximately 130 individuals currently utilize the clinic’s services.

Personalized Care

At the Endocrinology Clinic, the emphasis is on personalized care, lifestyle encouragement, treatment management, and annual monitoring to prevent complications. Family members are especially welcome to attend appointments, as the support network of family and friends plays a vital role in everyday life with a chronic illness. The services offered have saved many trips to the capital and have significantly eased the burden on patients and their families.