GPs are key to improving care for people living with diabetes, the fastest growing chronic disease in Australia, according to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). In its submission to the Inquiry into Diabetes in Australia, the RACGP has provided 17 recommendations to improve care for people with diabetes, including: Investment in shared care models so patients are supported by their GP, other specialists, and allied health professionals to improve health outcomes Allowing GPs to certify continuous and flash glucose monitoring forms and incentivise point-of-care testing Increased funding for Medicare patient rebates for standard GP consultations, longer consultations for complex care, and consultations focused on prevention to ensure people can access the care they need Support for lifestyle interventions including social prescribing, which is proven to improve health and wellbeing by engaging patients in activities like yoga and walking group Support for culturally appropriate strategies for diabetes management for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities A national nutrition policy with particular focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' needs, and funding for regular updates or living guidelines to support GPs and other health professionals caring for patients RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said GPs are central to diabetes care and this should be reflected in health policies.

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