Kyabram District Health Service (KDHS) is aiming to tackle diabetes in rural areas with the launch of a new specialised clinic.
Stanhope Health, under KDHS, opened a brand-new diabetes clinic on Tuesday, September 12, adding to the health centre’s growing list of services.
The clinic was announced on June 12, following community feedback to KDHS, which highlighted a high prevalence of diabetes in Kyabram and nearby towns.
KDHS chief executive Anne McEvoy said that the new diabetes clinic will address “the high prevalence of the disease” in the Stanhope community by providing specialist support for clients closer to home.
Newly appointed diabetes outreach care co-ordinator Melissa Wade will lead the clinic, offering vital support to community members living with or at high risk of diabetes.
“At the clinic, I’ll work with clients to set realistic goals, co-ordinate their appointments and support them in making the lifestyle changes recommended by their healthcare team,” Ms Wade said.
“We’re excited to have Melissa join our team at Stanhope Health. She is a diabetes educator and physiotherapist with extensive experience working with people with chronic illnesses,” Ms McEvoy said.
From Tuesday, September 10, Stanhope and district residents can book in-person visits, telehealth consultations, or join group programs, offering flexible options to suit various needs.
There will be two types of group programs for clients to choose from.
The first will be a Diabetes Peer Support Group, aiming to connect people to share their experiences managing the disease with one another.
The second is a Diabetes Education And Exercise Program, where clients will meet once a week for eight weeks to receive tailored exercise and education program aimed at encouraging self-management, healthy eating, and preventing health complications.
Ms Wade said that the group programs are “pivotal to the ongoing health” of clients with diabetes and will give them a chance to learn from one another through shared experiences.
The diabetes clinic operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering free consultations with Ms Wade to ensure accessible, expert care for all community members.
For more information on the new diabetes outreach clinic at Stanhope Health, phone 03 5857 0451.