Improving access to diabetes care

Objectives

Diabetes prevalence in Seychelles is high, having reached 12.3% of the adult population, according to the IDF Diabetes Atlas, 2nd Edition.

While good diabetes care is available in the private sector in the Seychelles, the quality and availability of diabetes care in the public system is limited.
ObjectiveThe project seeks to improve access to diabetes care through the establishment of 4 regional diabetes clinics.

Approach

The project builds upon the approach developed and implemented in the WDF-funded "Access to Care in Tanzania" by the Tanzanian Diabetes Association and the Ministry of Health.

The Diabetic Society of Seychelles has taken the lead in working with the Ministry of Health to improve the quality of and access to diabetes care within the public health care system in the country.

Four diabetes clinics will be established within regional hospitals/clinics at which specialised diabetes services up until now have been non-existent.

The four sites are:
• Anse Royale Hospital - southern part of the country
• Beoliere Clinic - Western part of the country
• Beau Vallon Clinic - Northern part of the country
• English River Clinic - Central part of the country

The project provides training for the involved healthcare staff and essential equipment. Access to essential drugs for the treatment of diabetes will be facilitated through a revolving fund mechanism managed by the local branches of the Diabetes Society of Seychelles.

Running costs in terms of staff and facilities for the clinics will be covered by the Ministry of Health as the clinics are fully integrated into the public system.

Results at completion

• 33 nurses, 6 doctors, and 5 physiotherapists trained in diabetes management and foot care.