A Virtual Emergency Department for Diabetes
In July 2024, ACADI commenced Australia’s first Virtual Emergency Department Diabetes Service (VVED Diabetes) as a Victorian Government-funded pilot in partnership with the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, Northern Health, Ambulance Victoria, Diabetes Victoria, and Royal Flying Doctors Service.
The rapidly growing service provides a free telehealth consultation to people with non-life-threatening complications, offering immediate ‘on the spot’ emergency diabetes management support to reduce the need for emergency visits and hospitalisation.
Known as VVED Diabetes, the service is supporting people across a range of community settings, with users connecting via Ambulance Victoria, residential aged care facilities, other healthcare providers, or direct access to the service.
With nearly half of all presentations relating to hyperglycaemic episodes, VVED Diabetes provides safe, timely and high-quality specialist care for people who are acutely unwell, while helping reduce pressure on busy emergency departments and hospital services.
Recognising the impact that the service has had on the community, the Victorian Government has committed to tripling the reach of the service across the state.
On-board Keytone Testing
“Paramedics are now able to provide valuable blood ketone results when they call us for advice, this guides patient care and treatment decisions. Often, we can prevent patients having to go to hospital.”Cecily Foged, Virtual Emergency Diabetes Nurse Practitioner
Our Vision for a National VED Diabetes Service
Building on the success of VVED Diabetes in Victoria, ACADI has a vision to see the model adopted across all Australian states and territories.
A nationwide service could provide specialist emergency diabetes support to more than 6,200 Australians each year, improving access to care while reducing pressure on hospitals and emergency departments.
Close the Gap in Access
Deliver specialist emergency diabetes care to rural and remote Australians, First Nations peoples, and other underserved communities, regardless of location.
Prevent Avoidable Admissions
Provide immediate specialist advice and self-management support to reduce emergency department presentations and hospital admissions.
Reduce Health System Costs
Greater access to virtual care has the potential to divert 80-90% of patients from hospital and emergency departments.
Expand Point-of-Care Innovation
Accelerate the use of technology such as ambulance-based ketone testing to support earlier intervention and improved outcomes.