Updated 25 January 2022. Access to routine care Gestational diabetes—recommended postnatal oral glucose tolerance test After a pregnancy with gestational diabetes, it is recommended that you have a postnatal oral glucose tolerance test to check that your blood glucose levels have returned to the normal range. If you live in an area currently affected by a COVID-19 outbreak, we recommend you ask your health professional(s) for advice on whether you should temporarily delay having this test. You should consult your health professional(s) for more information or to discuss any concerns. It is recommended that you return for a glucose tolerance test, within 12 months of your last pregnancy or before trying for another pregnancy. Read more about this health check and why it is important. Stay connected with your health care team People with diabetes need regular access to their doctor (GP or specialist), their credentialled diabetes educator (CDE) and other health professionals to help manage their diabetes and stay healthy. It’s important to stay connected to your diabetes healthcare team. They are still available to support you during COVID-19—and can do this safely either by telehealth or with precautions in place at practices. Do not skip or defer your regular medical appointments with your doctor (GP or specialist), credentialled diabetes educator and other health professionals during COVID-19. They need to monitor your diabetes and your health. Read more in our fact sheets: Your diabetes annual cycle of care Diabetes care and COVID-19. For more information, visit the Diabetes Australia website: Diabetes Be Connected. Telehealth In response to COVID-19 the Australian Government introduced new telehealth services to allow people to have medical, nursing and allied health consultations with their healthcare team without leaving home. Telehealth services enable people with diabetes to have telephone or video consultations with GPs, CDEs, nurse practitioners, psychologists and other allied health professionals. This enables people to continue to access essential health services and reduce potential exposure to COVID-19. Temporary telehealth services introduced as part of COVID-19 measures have become a permanent service. To find out more about telehealth services, please visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website at health.gov.au/news/permanent-telehealth-for-all-australians. People with diabetes requiring a medical or other health consultation are encouraged to contact their health professional and discuss telehealth options. Access to emergency care It is very important that you don’t delay accessing urgent medical care if you need it. If something changes with your eyes and vision, or you notice foot problems, or you are worried or have questions about your diabetes—seek advice from a health professional. If you are worried about visiting a medical practice in person, contact them by phone to discuss your concerns. Doctors and other healthcare professionals have arrangements in place to keep you safe if you need to visit your GP clinic or hospital. Extra support We are extending the hours for the NDSS National Helpline 1800 637 700 to be able to give greater support for people with diabetes during COVID-19. The new hours are: Monday to Friday – 8:30am to 8:00pm Saturday – 9:00am to 2:00pm If you have any questions about COVID-19 and your diabetes, you need a bit of extra support, or you are struggling with your diabetes management during this time—please don’t hesitate to call the Helpline on 1800 637 700 where you can: talk to a health professional about managing your diabetes get advice about specific diabetes information related to COVID-19 find out how to access health services and support during this time discuss access to NDSS products and diabetes medications.
