At Diabetes Australia’s Telehealth Clinic, you can book an appointment with a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) like Karen Jameson. A CDE is a health professional with specialist knowledge and expertise in diabetes education. They help people manage their diabetes, prevent complications, and live well. Karen shares why it’s worth connecting with a CDE.

Qualified and experienced health professionals

Karen was a graduate nurse working in surgical wards when she realised she wanted to spend more time educating people than removing cannulas, changing dressings, and monitoring their recovery. A surgical patient on an insulin infusion sparked Karen’s interest in learning about diabetes management.

“I didn’t know much about diabetes at first, but I got curious,” Karen said. “I decided to get a graduate certificate in diabetes education management. I have been working with people living with diabetes for 28 years now. I know more about the pancreas than anything else,” Karen laughed.

Not all CDEs are nurses. Some are dietitians, exercise physiologists, or Aboriginal Health Workers. All have specialist training in diabetes management and can help people with diabetes or prediabetes.

Quality education and support

CDEs provide personalised education on blood glucose monitoring, insulin administration, medications, and healthy lifestyle changes. They customise information to suit your needs, literacy, lifestyle, and cultural background. Karen points out that CDEs are also your biggest cheerleaders.

“I love one-to-one appointments where I can connect with someone and empower them to self-manage their diabetes. While we are giving you information and new skills, we are also helping you build the knowledge, motivation and confidence to make and sustain healthy lifestyle changes,” Karen said.

Keeping you on track

“Sometimes you just need to talk things through,” Karen said. “CDEs will listen to your goals and challenges, help you create and review your health plan, fine-tune strategies and guide your use of insulin pumps, CGMs and apps.”

CDEs also liaise with GPs, specialists and support networks and can help educate your family or carer.  

Support from anywhere

You don’t need to see a CDE in person to benefit from their expertise and experience. Diabetes Australia’s Telehealth Clinic offers online consultations, making it easier to access support regardless of your location. Whether reviewing your blood glucose levels, discussing your health goals, or talking through your latest pathology results, a CDE can guide you effectively via a video or phone call.

How to book an appointment

To book a Telehealth Clinic appointment with a CDE, you can:

• Book online
• Call 1800 177 055 (press 5) Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 4:30pm
• Email [email protected]