Diabetes Connecting Care Clinic

What we do

Type 2 diabetes can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication. Managing diabetes well is the best way to prevent diabetes-related complications.

The supportive DCCC team will:

• Help to improve your understanding of type 2 diabetes
• Provide you with clear guidance and instructions to help you to self-manage your diabetes
• Help you to learn how to monitor your diabetes, and reduce the risks of developing diabetes complications

The team includes:

• Endocrinologist
• GP Specialist
• Pharmacist
• Diabetes Nurse Educator
• Dietitian
• Exercise Physiologist

Who we care for

This clinic is available to adults with type 2 diabetes and suboptimal glucose levels, requiring a multidisciplinary team approach to support your self-management.

What to expect

This clinic is located at Caulfield Hospital and will involve staff from The Alfred and Caulfield Community Health Centre, known as your DCCC team.

Your first appointment will be with the Diabetes Nurse Educator, Dietitian and Exercise Physiologist. At this appointment a phone call review with the pharmacist will be arranged, and an appointment made to see the GP specialist and endocrinologist at the hospital on a Friday morning.

After a series of appointments over 6 to 12 months, and once you have achieved your goals, we will transfer your care back to your usual GP through a virtual case conference. If needed, your GP can always refer you back to the DCCC if you need more help with your diabetes.

How to access this clinic

Referral from your GP

You need an online, eReferral from your GP or medical practitioner to access this service.

Your doctor will need to send your referral to us using our online system - Consultmed eReferral.

We will be in contact with you to arrange your first appointment.

What to bring

For a clinic appointment

• Medicare card
• Health Care Card and/or concession card (if you have one)
• Private health insurance card (if applicable/if you want to use it)
• Adverse drug alert card (if you have one)
• Results from recent blood tests
• Medicines you need to take while you are here
• For each visit, bring along an up-to-date list of your medication, your glucose meter and blood glucose readings
• Follow your care plan as agreed with your DCCC team
• Your favourite hypo food
• Something to do, like a book, magazine or an iPad/tablet with headphones
• Glasses, hearing aid(s) and/or walking frame if needed

Clinic times

Clinic consultants

• Prof Anthony Russell: Endocrinology
• Lynette Schroen: Diabetes Nurse Educator
• Ms Nithya Abraham: Diabetes Nurse Educator
• Vincent Ng: Pharmacist
• Anna Foster: Exercise physiologist
• Emily Clarke: Dietitian