Queenslanders are being reminded that their local community pharmacy can play a vital role in managing all types of diabetes, according to Chris Owen, President of The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch.
With type 2 diabetes affecting nearly 1.2 million people across Australia – with around 125 new cases diagnosed each day – Queenslanders are being reminded that they’re not immune to the rising prevalence of chronic conditions.
Data indicates that in Queensland, 1 in 2 residents now live with chronic, long-term conditions, like diabetes.
“A healthier future – for everyone. That was the heart of this year’s Diabetes Week campaign, and it resonates with the expanding role of community pharmacists in the prevention and management of diabetes,” says The Pharmacy Guild Queensland Branch.
Mr Owen adds that the Queensland Community Pharmacy Chronic Conditions Management Pilot enables community pharmacists across the state to work with patients to manage their diabetes.
“Under the Pilot, participating community pharmacists are now initiating and adjusting medications, ordering pathology, and providing ongoing care in collaboration with GPs and specialists,” he says.
“The key to managing diabetes is early detection and prevention.
“If patients have questions or have noticed signs or symptoms they think are suspicious, they should give their local pharmacist a call or come in and have a chat.”
The Guild says that for patients who have already received a diagnosis, community pharmacists can work with patients to:
- Conduct a Diabetes Meds Check to review their medications and enhance their understanding of diabetes management.
- Provide guidance on using blood glucose monitors effectively.
- Offer advice on weight management and available pharmacy programs, and much more.
“These professional services are available to Queensland patients, offering timely, convenient, and accessible care in their community,” says Mr Owen.
Mr Owen says that many community pharmacies are now also taking part in the National Diabetes Service Scheme (NDSS).
“This national program’s goal is to help patients who have diabetes better understand and manage the condition.
“The NDSS also focuses on increasing patient access to support, health services and diabetes products, some of which are available at a subsidised rate,” he says.
Diabetes doesn’t wait, and community pharmacies are ready and able to help.
To better understand what services are offered at their community pharmacy, patients are encouraged to visit the Find a Pharmacy website at: findapharmacy.com.au/qld-scope.
