Background
The Diabetes Regional Education, Access, and Management (DREAM) Initiative, launched by St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney Diabetes Service 2024, in collaboration with the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, focuses on improving diabetes management in rural and remote communities where no public diabetes clinics existed. This initiative includes General Practice (GP) case conferencing to enhance patient care and clinician skills. It addresses the critical need for workforce models that are inclusive of the diversity within these communities, promoting cultural competency and improving healthcare access for rural and regional communities.
Method
Patient and clinician satisfaction were evaluated through anonymous surveys. The evaluation focused on how the DREAM GP case conferencing model impacted patient care, workforce collaboration, and inclusion of culturally diverse needs. The results from eleven DREAM clinics, involving 187 patients, 28 GPs, 11 Practice Nurses and 2 local Diabetes Educators were analyzed.
Results
Both patients and healthcare providers reported high satisfaction. Among 70 patient respondents (37% response rate), 93% were "very satisfied" with case conferencing. All patients rated clinician communication as excellent or good, and 99% felt their concerns were addressed. Additionally, 96% noted improved diabetes care coordination. GPs and practice nurses (39% response rate) unanimously agreed the DREAM program met their education needs, with many requesting more clinics. Five telehealth review clinics were completed (53 patients) highlighting a 0.6±1.4% HbA1c reduction (p=0.003) and a 2.5±5.5 kg weight loss (p=0.01).
Conclusion
There is high satisfaction for the DREAM Initiative, which empowers healthcare professionals and enhances patient care by focusing on accessibility, cultural competency, and communication. This initiative highlights the value of inclusion in healthcare and demonstrates how policy and innovation in workforce models can positively impact clinical outcomes and workforce development. The DREAM Initiative exemplifies the core values of courage, compassion, and connection in shaping the future of healthcare.