Ground-breaking diabetes care trial

17 February 2012

The Victorian Government has committed $2 million for a new pilot scheme to improve care for people with diabetes.

The two-year pilot scheme will test new models of healthcare delivery and support key initiatives identified in the Victorian Health Priorities Framework 2012-2022.

Several GP practices in the Barwon and northern Melbourne areas will work with their relevant Medicare Locals to source the required number of patients to participate in the pilot, commencing later this year.

Key elements of the scheme include:

• a package of funding for each voluntarily enrolled patient to improve the co-ordination and flexibility of care
• an education and training program for consumers and healthcare professionals
• a care facilitator role to manage the integrated care approach
• information and communications technology to enable better information sharing.

Minister for Health David Davis said the work is a key test of innovative models of care that seek to tackle the chronic health conditions that are increasingly affecting Victorians.

"These conditions are increasing in prevalence and impact on the lives of Victorians and are also placing unprecedented pressures on all health services, and particularly on hospitals," Mr Davis said.

The trial also recognises the important role that GPs play in the diagnosis, care and management of ongoing chronic health conditions such as diabetes.

The pilot in Victoria is being jointly funded with the Commonwealth Government, which is also funding the scheme in South Australia and Queensland.

The pilot is being supported by a Diabetes Advisory Group that includes representatives from the Australian Medical Association, Diabetes Australia and other key stakeholders.