Published: 25 September, 2024 Through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), the Australian Government and Diabetes Australia are dedicated to reducing the impact of diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are disproportionally affected by diabetes. To support this goal, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners (AHPs) have been added to the list of approved health care professionals who can certify select NDSS forms for a person diagnosed with diabetes. From September 2024, AHPs are authorised to certify the NDSS Registration form after sighting a diagnosis of diabetes, and the Syringe or Pen Needle Access form. AHPs will not be undertaking diagnosis of diabetes which will remain with Endocrinologist, General Practitioner or similar health professionals. Who is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner? AHPs are integral in supporting people with diabetes within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Their culturally sensitive, holistic care, education, and advocacy make them indispensable in improving diabetes care and overall health among these populations. AHPs are registered under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practice Board of Australia. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners title can only be used by a person holding a Certificate IV Aboriginal Primary Health Care Practice and registration with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Benefits of the initiative Expanding certifying authorities to include AHPs will enable timely registration and access to insulin syringes and pen needles, increase accessibility to the NDSS resources, programs and services, and enhance professional recognition of the role of AHPs. How does it work? Certifying NDSS forms for people living with diabetes is easy. Authorised health professionals can sign up to the NDSS Health Professional Portal with their AHPRA registration number and they’ll be able to register people they care for and provide access to diabetes products within minutes. As the NDSS Health Professional Portal is an optional business process, forms are available for health professionals to print through the NDSS website. Where to learn more NDSS Health Professional Portal frequently asked questions - https://www.ndss.com.au/health-professionals/hp-portal/faqs/ About NDSS registration – https://www.ndss.com.au/about-the-ndss/registration/ How the NDSS supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living with all types of diabetes - https://www.ndss.com.au/about-diabetes/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-peoples/
