Diabetes WA welcomes the twin appointments of the Hon Meredith Hammat MLA as Minister for Health and Mental Health and the Hon Sabine Winton MLA as Western Australia’s first dedicated Minister for Preventative Health.
These appointments, alongside that of Hon John Carey MLA to the new portfolio of Health Infrastructure, will expand the State Government’s approach to health and ensure a greater focus on preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes – which in turn will reduce demand on our hospitals.
More than 260,000 West Australians currently live with diabetes, with more than 80% of those having type 2 diabetes. Complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and amputations mean that diabetes currently places a heavy burden on WA hospitals, with 20-30% of beds occupied by people living with the condition. While genetics play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, preventative measures such as lifestyle changes can dramatically lower the risk of developing it.
Melanie Gates, CEO of Diabetes WA, said the appointment of Minister Winton signalled the state government’s commitment to embracing action on prevention.
“We know that prevention is key when it comes to reducing the burden of diabetes in Western Australia,” Ms Gates said. “By prioritising preventative health, we not only help people live healthier lives but also reduce pressure on our already stretched hospital system.”
Ms Gates said she looks forward to continuing Diabetes WA’s work with the Department of Health and Minister Hammat on expanding Diabetes Connect to ensure more communities and individuals can benefit from specialist diabetes care.
Launched in regional areas in late 2024, this service promises to ease demand on hospitals. By linking rural and regional GPs with a team of endocrinologists, the service ensures a GP can provide the patients with timely specialist input in their community, with their own healthcare team, rather than travelling to Perth.
“We are committed to working with Ministers Hammat, Winton and Carey to continue to develop policies and programs that empower West Australians to better manage their health and reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals across the state,” says Ms Gates.
