Background
People from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background have been identified as a key priority group for increasing registration on the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). CALD communities experience higher rates of diabetes but face challenges in accessing appropriate care.
Aim
To investigate challenges faced by CALD communities in registering on the NDSS and accessing diabetes care, and to identify strategies to facilitate improved service delivery to CALD clients with diabetes.
Methods
Five priority groups were identified including Chinese (Mandarin speaking), Chinese (Cantonese speaking), Vietnamese, Turkish and Arabic speaking cultures. A qualitative research methodology was applied including desktop and best practice research, one on one interviews with state NDSS agents and focus groups with CALD community members and health professionals delivering services to these groups.
Results
The research identified challenges that CALD communities face in accessing diabetes services, such as the NDSS. These included lack of cultural sensitivity from service providers, challenges in language and literacy and confusion about benefits of NDSS and the registration process.
To address this, a communication strategy will be implemented with a focus on two key audiences: Health professionals working with people diagnosed with diabetes; and people with diabetes from the five key CALD communities.
Approaches will include advertising and public relations, audit and update of existing CALD publications, and a diabetes cultural guide to assist health professionals in providing information in a way that is culturally receptive.
Conclusion or recommendation
Based on the research results, Diabetes Queensland will implement a number of communication and engagement strategies to facilitate improved access to services for people with diabetes from CALD communities and support health professionals in providing optimal care to these communities