It’s the old adage – strength in numbers always beats doing it on your own and that has proven true for the self-formed Waikato Diabetes Community Team.

A trifecta of newly funded medications, targeted dashboard technology and innovative training for primary care diabetes management is behind significant improvements for diabetes patients in Te Manawa Taki (Midland region).

Amidst New Zealand’s ever-increasing diabetes epidemic, unique support to re-engage patients with diabetes back to primary care is proving successful in the Waikato.

Sue van Mierlo is a nurse practitioner working as part of the Lakes Extended Care Team. In her role she supports people to self-manage long-term conditions and diseases, including managing diabetes. A large number of her clients are Māori.

Pinnacle is partnering with Waikato University, Hauraki and ProCare PHOs to explore inequities in prescribing for diabetes and cardiovascular disease in primary care. Please OPT OUT before 8 April 2022 if you do not want your practice data included in the study.

Kathy joined Pinnacle earlier this month as clinical diabetes specialist for Waikato, replacing the role previously held by Anne Waterman.