iCARE for DIP
iCARE for DIP: integrated, Culturally-Appropriate, Research and Evidence-based care for Diabetes in Pregnancy (DIP)
Project Aims
Prevent diabetes and diabetes-related complications among First Nations people in remote NT communities through provision of integrated, culturally appropriate, research- and evidence-based care during pregnancy and early childhood.
Project Objectives
Based on existing research, the proposed intervention will include four key components. The implementation of these will be co-designed with health professionals and consumers.1. Strengthen workforce capacity and capability through employment and training of First Nations community-based workers and upskilling of existing health care staff.2. Improve integration of care across primary, secondary and tertiary services through multidisciplinary case discussions, clinical data sharing, care coordination, and appropriate transition of care.3. Develop culturally and linguistically appropriate DIP consumer education video resources.4. Provide supported access to Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) for all women with DIP.
Project Summary
The iCARE project aims to improve care for First Nations women with diabetes in pregnancy (DIP) by making services more culturally safe, better connected, and easier to access. Working with women, families, and health professionals in East Arnhem Land, the project will co-design, implement, and evaluate new models of care that strengthen the First Nations health workforce, improve teamwork between clinics and hospitals, create culturally appropriate education resources, and provide access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). By 2030, iCARE will deliver a tested, community-led model to enhance care and outcomes for mothers and babies across the NT and beyond.
Implications for policy and practice
The iCARE study will provide important evidence to guide future health policy and practice for diabetes in pregnancy (DIP). By co-designing culturally safe, community-led models of care with First Nations women, families, and health services, the project will show how to strengthen and sustain a First Nations health workforce and improve care coordination across clinics and hospitals. Findings on the benefits and practical use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) will support policy changes to increase access and funding for this technology in routine maternity care. Insights from iCARE will help inform NT Health and national guidelines, creating a scalable model that can reduce service gaps and improve outcomes for mothers and babies across Australia.
This work is supported by the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) in collaboration with Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, AMSANT and Northern Territory Department of Health