Type 2 diabetes is a serious health issue affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at a much higher rate than non-Indigenous Australians. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to non-Indigenous Australians. The reasons for this are complex and many, but one crucial factor is the lack of access to quality healthcare. 

To address this health gap, the Australian Government introduced the annual 715 health check. The 715 health check is a comprehensive health assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which includes an assessment of diabetes risk factors. The 715 health check is free of charge and can be accessed by all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and over. 

This article explores the 715 free health check and how it can be used to help prevent and detect diabetes.

What is the 715 health check?

The 715 health check is a really important tool for preventing diabetes. The assessment identifies risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels. Early detection of these risk factors can lead to earlier treatment, care and support, including health behaviour change “lifestyle modification” support and guidance from a doctor and other health professionals. Support could include working with the person at risk of diabetes on what they feel they can start working towards to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Such as improving or increasing life-enhancing stress management behaviours and assistance e.g. carving out more time to enjoy physical activity each week and or seeking more specific social and emotional wellbeing support around social stressors e.g. housing. 

Did you know? 

• Having a yearly 715 health check is free and takes around 45-60 minutes to complete 
• The 715 health check has been tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and up 
• Having a 715 health check will help the person to manage their health and prevent chronic diseases 
• Having a 715 health check also gives the person access to additional bulk-billed allied health services (including podiatry, physiotherapy, dietitians and more) 

In addition to diabetes prevention, the 715 health check also addresses other health issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and mental health. The assessment includes a physical examination, blood tests, and other health assessments, as well as an opportunity to discuss any health concerns with a health worker. 

Despite the importance of the 715 health check, uptake of this health check isn’t ideal. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that only 30% of eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians accessed the 715 health check in 2019-20, no doubt COVID-19 played a part.

To address this issue, the Australian government has launched various initiatives to increase the uptake of the 715 health check. These initiatives include culturally appropriate education and awareness programs, funding for healthcare providers to deliver the 715 health check, and incentives for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to attend the health check. 

The 715 health check is a potentially powerful tool for diabetes prevention and the overall health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Early detection of diabetes risk factors through the 715 health check can lead to earlier interventions, which can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. It is crucial that all eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples access the 715 health check, and by working together, health workers and healthcare providers can ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receive the care and support they need to live healthy, empowered and fulfilling lives.   

For more information on diabetes education for the health workforce and or people living with or at risk of diabetes, please head to the Diabetes Australia website here or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 to speak with a health professional. 

By Robbie Tyson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator