Fix early intervention to improve health outcomes and avoid surging costs

Here, we take a closer look at priority number two.  

2. Fix early intervention to improve health outcomes and avoid surging costs
   • 2.1 Launch a new Life! early detection, early intervention and remission program in the community for type 2 diabetes, focused on priority groups  
   • 2.2 Support faster access to insulin pump therapy 

Screening and early detection for type 2 

We often hear from our community about missed opportunities for early diagnosis and timely access to quality health care.  

“Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed 4-6 years after it begins,” says Sarah Dubé, Prevention Strategy and Engagement Lead at Diabetes Victoria 

“At that stage, diabetes-related complications have often already developed. 

“A more proactive approach to screening and early detection is needed, to give people the best chance to reduce the risk of complications.” 

Diabetes Victoria is calling on the next Victorian Government to invest $28.7 million over four years to develop and deliver a new Life! type 2 diabetes early detection, early intervention and remission program. 

The new program would focus on priority groups that have higher rates of type 2 diabetes, including: 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 
• People in rural and regional areas 
• Culturally and linguistically diverse communities 

Diabetes distress has a negative impact on both mental wellbeing and diabetes management. The program would include stepped-care mental health support. 

Improving access to insulin pumps 

Victorian parents of children and young people living with diabetes report waiting times of up to 18 months to start insulin pump therapy. 

Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems are the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes. 

“We know these technologies can help people more effectively manage diabetes and lead to better health outcomes,” says Diabetes Victoria CEO Glen Noonan. 

“Treatment and technology should be affordable and easy to access for all people living with diabetes. 

“Right now, people can access insulin pump therapy if they have top-tier private health insurance or if they pay for it themselves – and it’s not cheap. 

“Still, even for those people who can access pumps, the long waiting times to start insulin pump therapy in the state health system means delays in improving health outcomes.” 

Diabetes Victoria is calling on the next State Government to invest $3.6 million over four years to increase the capacity of pump-trained diabetes specialists in the public system. 

Alongside this, a website showing wait times for pump starts and information on alternative providers and faster access, including private pathways. 

Learn more about the Life! program.