Tuesday 11 July 2011 Program provides remedy to manage type 2 diabetes Results from a clinical review of Remedy Healthcare’s type 2 diabetes program have shown that patients who make simple lifestyle changes can live very healthy, active and productive lives. The program has shown a significant improvement in all risk factor targets for patients who have graduated from the program. Remedy Healthcare general manager David Brajkovic said the number of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes continues to increase each year, with the prevalence of the disease now considered a global health crisis. “Diabetes is a chronic disease which can trigger serious health complications, such as heart and kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease and blindness,” Mr Brajkovic said. “The good news is that there is no need for people suffering from type 2 diabetes to be weighed down by the burden of their disease—many of these complications can be prevented and managed through greater awareness and simple lifestyle changes. “The program is delivered by qualified diabetes nurse educators and dieticians. Together they empower participants to identify barriers to improving their health as well as facilitating positive behaviours and attitudes which allow them to take control of their condition.” Mr Brajkovic added: “The exponential increase in people diagnosed is correlated to increasing rates of obesity. “We have found that by understanding why our patients gained weight, we can set achievable goals to motivate them to change,” he said. The program is currently offered at no extra cost to health members of Australian Unity and other participating health funds. “By providing people with the confidence and knowledge to manage their condition we help to reduce the risk of associated health complications and participants can focus on getting out and enjoying life,” Mr Brajkovic said. ends For media enquiries contact Australian Unity’s Public Affairs Adviser Sarah Kulman, on 0400 006 295 or email [email protected]. For more information on Remedy Healthcare’s programs call 1300 224 334. It is estimated that 275 Australians develop diabetes every day, with 1.7 million Australians currently living with this disease. Half of these people live with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes which puts them at risk of further immediate and longer term health complications.1 Remedy is a preventative health business wholly owned by Australian Unity which provides programs for people diagnosed with coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. The programs utilise best evidence based research to ensure maximum health outcomes and are delivered through telephonic, online and mobile clinician interventions, such as in home care programs. Diabetes Australia 1