New approach to diabetes education could strengthen health care workforce
A multidisciplinary, co-designed education program is helping equip allied health professionals with the skills to support Australians living with diabetes—a complex condition that requires ongoing education, self-management support and interaction with health care professionals.
A new, multidisciplinary diabetes education program for allied health professionals is being hailed as a potential solution to strengthen Australia's healthcare workforce. Led by researchers at The University of Western Australia, the program incorporates input from practicing professionals, educators, and people living with diabetes to develop training that reflects real-world care delivery.
The program, which attracted over 700 applicants, including a significant number from regional areas, has achieved a 92% completion rate among the 142 participants who enrolled. Despite challenges in finding suitable local clinical placements, a centrally coordinated telehealth clinic has been introduced to address this issue. Lead researcher Dr. Alex Park emphasized the importance of expanding diabetes care capability beyond traditional models, stating that this approach could build a more connected and accessible workforce.
While the program's immediate impact on professional practice and patient outcomes is yet to be evaluated, it represents a promising model for other areas of healthcare grappling with growing demand, workforce shortages, and geographic inequities.
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