COVID-19 and the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS)

We recognise that people with diabetes and their families may be concerned about their risk, and also the availability of their diabetes medicines and NDSS products and supplies. Most people are continuing to order and receive their NDSS products and diabetes medicines as usual. This ensures enough products are available for everyone.  For the latest information on COVID-19 and the NDSS, please visit the NDSS website at  ndss.com.au/coronavirus-covid-19-information/

If you need a bit of extra support, or if you are struggling with your diabetes management during this time, please don’t hesitate to call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 to speak to a health professional.  The NDSS privacy policy can be accessed here.

Diabetes is a chronic condition marked by high levels of glucose in the blood. It is caused either by the inability to produce insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas to control blood glucose levels) or by the body not being able to use insulin effectively. Insulin is the hormone which unlocks the cells in your body and allows the sugar (glucose) in your blood to be used for immediate energy needs, or it is stored to be used later on. High blood glucose levels can cause long term health problems. Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes along with lifestyle changes will have positive health effects on these conditions.

Type 1 and type 2 are the two main types of diabetes, although gestational diabetes can sometimes develop during pregnancy.

The NDSS has developed a Carb counting online program accessed here for use by people with type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes and women with gestational diabetes independently or together with their diabetes health professional. 

Ready Set Let’s Move activity online activity program accessed here for people with type 2 diabetes and type 1 diabetes.  And a recommended annual diabetes cycle of care can be accessed here through podcasts.