A mobile diabetes care initiative in Calgary is offering crucial support to individuals like Jeremy Auger, who carefully manages his carbohydrate intake due to late-onset Type 1 diabetes. Auger, who used to struggle with fluctuating blood sugar levels, now benefits from the services provided by the diabetes mobile clinic, led by endocrinologist Dr. David Campbell.
This innovative mobile clinic, known as the diabetes bus, serves vulnerable populations, including the homeless and those with limited incomes, at locations like The Alex Community Health Centre. Campbell highlights the importance of providing high-quality care to individuals without stable housing to prevent severe diabetes-related complications such as amputations, kidney failure, and heart disease.
The clinic offers a range of services, from foot care to rapid diagnostic tests, along with dietary guidance and connections to essential programs like housing support. Erin Dartnell, a registered nurse with the mobile clinic, emphasizes their role as a comprehensive healthcare resource for patients.
With diabetes affecting a significant portion of the Canadian population, proactive care is essential to mitigate risks. Research indicates a higher mortality rate and increased health issues related to diabetes among homeless individuals compared to those with stable housing and regular healthcare access.
Dr. Kaberi Dasgupta from McGill University underscores the significant gap in diabetes care for individuals without stable housing. The mobile clinic operates weekly, catering to both scheduled appointments and walk-in patients, aiming to address the unique challenges faced by these individuals.
Auger’s experience reflects the positive impact of the mobile clinic, stabilizing his blood sugar levels through tailored treatment and dietary education. By eliminating transportation barriers and offering comprehensive care, patients like Auger find the mobile clinic to be a convenient and effective solution.
The diabetes bus project in Calgary, currently in its pilot phase, has received funding to extend its operations beyond the initial two-year period. Dr. Campbell envisions the mobile clinic becoming an integral part of the healthcare system to address the ongoing challenges in diabetes care.
While mobile clinics have proven successful in various healthcare domains, including breast cancer screening and mental health services, establishing and scaling up such initiatives can be a complex endeavor in Canada. Dr. Dasgupta advocates for moving beyond pilot projects to ensure sustainable and widespread implementation of successful healthcare initiatives.
