Diabetes Fiji Inc. has launched its outreach program in the Northern Division, commencing in the Bua Medical Subdivision, with the aim of enhancing frontline care and empowering rural communities in the battle against diabetes. This initiative is a significant step towards improving healthcare delivery for people living with diabetes (PLWD).
In coordination with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, particularly the Divisional Medical Officer and Medical Superintendent, Diabetes Fiji provided crucial training focused on Diabetes Foot Care and Wound Care to primary healthcare providers at Nabouwalu. Emphasizing early detection, treatment, and prevention, this training addresses the growing concern of diabetic foot complications in Fiji’s rural health sectors.
As part of the outreach, a Foot Care Service Audit was conducted at Nabouwalu Hospital to assess and refine service delivery for diabetic patients. The outcomes of this audit will guide strategic enhancements in diabetic care throughout the subdivision.
The team also engaged with long-established Community Diabetes Peer Support Groups in Makolei and Naruwai. Despite the formal peer support program’s conclusion in 2018, local peer leaders and village health workers, such as Ms. Filomena, continue to foster community health. Using simple bar and line graphs, Ms. Filomena tracks each member’s capillary blood glucose (CBG) levels—a grassroots initiative that has empowered villagers to take charge of their health. Currently, Makolei reports only three active diabetes cases, with no complications, showcasing a remarkable improvement in rural health outcomes.
A noteworthy moment during the outreach was a reunion between Diabetes Fiji staff and a former Peer Group Leader after four years, serving as a renewed source of inspiration for community support networks.
A member of the Diabetes Fiji team emphasized the dedication and resilience of community peer leaders in ensuring the continuity of health promotion efforts despite resource challenges: “They are true champions of health at the grassroots level,” highlighting a hopeful commitment to improving health in rural communities.
The first day of the Northern Tour underlines Diabetes Fiji’s commitment to promoting early intervention, lifestyle education, and long-term wellness for individuals living with diabetes. With proactive strategies and community engagement, there is optimism for noteworthy advancements in healthcare access and quality across the Northern Division.
This initiative resonates with previous efforts in Fiji to combat the diabetes crisis, reflecting a collaborative approach among organizations that significantly improves health outcomes. By fostering grassroots health leadership and community education, there is great potential for positive change in diabetes management, contributing to the overall well-being of Fijian communities.
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