News in diabetes
Sanofi have developed a comprehensive Reconciliation Action Plan and are supporting our Indigenous Diabetes Educator Scholarships. Learn more about the scholarship.
Sunday 14 November 2021 is World Diabetes Day. Read our interview with Susan Davidson, CEO of the ADEA on her support of UTS Indigenous Scholarships.
A new study from UTS researchers finds women in Australia spend a lot more of their own money to manage their diabetes.
Reversing type 2 diabetes in Indigenous Communities with Ray Kelly, whose documentary will soon air on SBS.
Living with diabetes and disadvantage – local solutions for local problems with Dr Tamara Power
Interested in studying Diabetes Education and Management at UTS? Register for our next information session
Introducing Stephen Woodward, Diabetes NSW & ACT High Achiever Award 2021
I was inspired to pursue a career in health after spending time in hospitals with various family members and observing various healthcare professionals. I was particularly struck by what a difference a nurse can make to not only their patients but their family as well during uncertain and stressful times.
I was so grateful for the nurses' knowledge and technical skills but also for when certain nurses took the time to foster a therapeutic relationship with the whole family, explain various procedures to their patient and family members, and make them feel welcome and supported. I now know this to be called patient/family centred care and I understand how important this approach is.
I decided after working in various fields such as computer mapping and photography, I decided I wanted a change of career. I decided I wanted work in a caring profession as a member of a healthcare team and so, decided to study as a mature aged student to become a Registered Nurse.
While studying nursing, I became aware of how living with diabetes impacted on people's quality of life. I opted to complete a community nursing placement in a diabetes centre in Newcastle and really enjoyed the teamwork I observed with the highly professional and diverse multi-disciplinary team that encouraged, empowered and assisted their clients to manage their diabetes as well as possible.
After completing my new graduate year with Justice Health in both primary health and mental health and working in Long Bay Correctional Centre in the mental health hospital, I was still interested in diabetes and so, decided to learn more and with a view to help people manage their diabetes and seek work with a multi-disciplinary diabetes care team. I commenced the Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management at UTS at the beginning of the pandemic, which was challenging, however, I really enjoyed the course due to the diverse content and the high level of support, understanding and encouragement provided by the course coordinator Shannon Lin and various guest presenters.
Whilst completing the course, my career took a different turn as I felt the need to contribute to the pandemic response and so, I commenced work with SLHD pandemic response team. Within this role I have worked in many diverse locations such as the International and Domestic Airports, Quarantine hotels, Mass Vaccination Centres, Aged Care homes, a dialysis centre, social housing buildings, disability support centres, Port Botany and a church. See other 2021 Health Award winners.
