Strengths-based approach to First Nations diabetes care

The University of Queensland has secured almost $1 million from the Targeted Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA) to pilot a health care model developed in consultation with First Nations peoples living with type 2 diabetes.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience disproportionately high levels of diabetes and are more likely to die from the disease than non-indigenous Australians.

The Team consulted extensively with Bundjalung Elders, First Nations health professionals and diabetes specialists to co-design The Diabetes - Using Our Strengths Service (DUOSS) program.

Led by proud Kamilaroi woman Professor Gail Garvey, the program provides a culturally safe, holistic model of healthcare that  puts the strengths of First Nations peoples at the heart of their diabetes management. 

The pilot will be delivered by UQ, Ramsay Connect and Australian Unity Aboriginal Home Health Service, with Indigenous communities in northern New South Wales.

DUOSS utilises technology to make care services more accessible and effective, and support remote patient monitoring, peer learning, group yarning and exercise to manage type 2 diabetes.

It aims to improve healthcare outcomes, deliver better patient and clinician experiences, and lower the cost of providing care.  

The evaluation will include a framework for how the service can be developed and scaled-up more widely.

The project received funding from the Medical Research Future Fund TTRA program for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease, delivered by MTPConnect. 

Media: UQ Communications, communications@uq.edu.au; +61 429 056 139