A local politician has visited Stanhope to see how its health service is attempting to tackle diabetes in the region.
On Thursday, November 14, Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell visited Stanhope Health for the first time since its refurbishment to tour the facilities and hear about the diabetes outreach clinic.
Stanhope Health diabetes outreach care co-ordinator Melissa Wade said there had been 12 participants since the eight-week program began on October 23.
Mr Birrell chatted with Ms Wade, along with Kyabram District Health Service chief executive Anne McEvoy and other staff of Stanhope Health, about the program and its impact on the community.
“There is not as much knowledge about how to look after yourself,” Ms Wade said.
“There’s not as good access to fresh and good food, there is a socio-economic disadvantage, there are people who are isolated or who have had trauma and all of that emotional stuff affects them, and they are who is more likely to have diabetes.”
Ms Wade explained that the program aimed to boost awareness of healthy eating and exercise to reduce diabetes rates — a priority identified by KDHS through local community feedback.
Stanhope Health has two outlets for those with diabetes or worried about their health to engage in preventative measures, including a Diabetes Peer Support Group to connect people managing the disease and a Diabetes Education and Exercise Program.
Both programs have allowed clients to learn from one another through shared experiences.
She said she has received comments from participants who said they had lost weight, felt more comfortable and less achy walking around, or had started thinking consciously about their lifestyle for the sake of their health.
Mr Birrell said he was pleased to see that a rural health clinic such as Stanhope Health could provide programs and outreach services to individuals across the region.
He emphasised that maintaining quality healthcare in country towns was crucial for community health, and developing sustainable models was vital for the region’s future.
The next program for the Diabetes Education and Exercise Program will start on February 6 with Ms Wade looking for participants.
The first meeting for the Diabetes Peer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday, November 27, with morning tea provided.