A new diabetes health bus is ‘making the rounds’ along the NSW coast to help patients directly, train local doctors and promote greater awareness.
The Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+) Medibus was at Forster and Taree on the lower Mid North-Coast of NSW last week.
They are due to return in mid-November, the NSW Government says.
Their custom-built Medibus is a fully equipped mobile clinic staffed by a team of specialists such as an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, Aboriginal health worker, and podiatrist.
Regional Health Minister Ryan Park says the mobile service is exactly what is needed for regional communities.
“By bringing specialist care close to people’s home we are ensuring everyone, regardless of where they live, can access the support and care they need to manage diabetes,” he explains.
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley says she was excited to see such care rolling out across the region to people who may not otherwise access it without travel.
“Our goal is to make it easier for people to get the care they need without the stress or burden of travelling long distances, especially in regional and rural areas.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the Medibus reach even more communities across the Hunter later this year.”
Hunter New England Local Health District’s Morag Joseph says their role is to grow awareness and work with local health professionals.
The bus is due to visit Tamworth from September 16–19, the Upper Hunter from October 27–November 7 and then return to the Lower Mid North Coast from November 17–19.
ABOUT HUNTER DIABETES
Diabetes remains one of the most critical health issues in the Hunter and New England region; an estimated one in eight people live with the condition with many more undiagnosed.
If left unmanaged, it can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, amputations, and premature death.
The disease affects poorer and indigenous communities more; they are three times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.
Access to the Medibus is arranged through your doctor or a local healthcare provider.
Further information can be found on the dapplus.org website.
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