In a move to improve diabetes care across Australia, Diabetes Australia, in collaboration with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), has launched an updated edition of the “Diabetes Handbook.” The revised resource is designed to arm general practitioners (GPs) with the latest, evidence-backed guidelines and strategies for managing diabetes more effectively.
With type 2 diabetes affecting over 1.3 million Australians and accounting for nearly 12% of GP consultations, the handbook’s timing is critical. This comprehensive update aims to better equip GPs with the knowledge and tools needed to provide optimal care for those living with the condition, which remains one of the country’s most pressing healthcare challenges.
Key among the new features is an expanded focus on diabetes remission, highlighting emerging research that shows some patients can achieve long-term remission—maintaining normal blood glucose levels without medication—particularly when diagnosed early and closely managed. This groundbreaking addition provides hope and clear pathways for patients and GPs alike, encouraging more proactive approaches to care.
The updated handbook also includes extensive guidance on newer treatment options, such as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, alongside clearer instructions on the use of these medications. Given the recent shortages of semaglutide—often used in both weight loss and diabetes management—the revision offers much-needed clarity on its availability and usage.
In addition to medical treatments, the new edition addresses a broader range of concerns affecting people with diabetes, including cognitive decline, hearing impairment, and mental health. By adopting a more holistic approach to patient care, the handbook empowers GPs to better address the multifaceted needs of individuals with diabetes.
Technology also plays a key role in the updated guidelines, with new recommendations on emerging digital tools that can enhance diabetes management and streamline care. These include monitoring devices, apps, and other tech solutions that can help patients and healthcare providers track and manage the condition more efficiently.
The revised “Diabetes Handbook,” launched on World Diabetes Day, marks a significant step in the 25-year partnership between Diabetes Australia and the RACGP. By strengthening the resources available to GPs, this initiative seeks to improve outcomes for the growing number of Australians living with diabetes, offering new hope for better management and long-term health.
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