Diabetes Educator

John is locally born and bred, On leaving school, he ran his farm at Cavendish for 14 years.

In a “tree change” moment he commenced General nursing in 1985. John commenced his nursing career an Associate Charge nurse in Medical Unit at WDHS before establishing the Diabetes Education Department in 1992. Married to Jenny, they have 3 sons and now 9 grandchildren

 Interests relate to all areas of diabetes

 -People with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes

-Medication reviews

-Pediatric diabetes

-Gestational diabetes

-Bariatric surgery for people with Diabetes

-Continuous Glucose monitoring

Diabetes Educator John Kearney visits the Hamilton Medical Group twice a month on Tuesday afternoons.

He provides education and support to assist patients with diabetes and their families to safely and confidently manage their condition.

In addition to your GP, a Diabetes Educator can assist with:

  • diabetes specific information and support
  • clinical care including insulin administration, including use of an insulin pump
  • supply and maintenance of blood glucose meters, insulin devices and continuous glucose monitoring systems

Do I need a referral to see the Diabetes Educator at Hamilton Medical Group?

Yes. A GP Management Plan is required.  Speak with your GP and Practice Nurse about this.  A GP Management Plan provides you with up to 5 free consultations each year with Allied Health Professionals which can include Dietitians, Physiotherapists, Diabetes Educators, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Therapists etc.

GP Management Plans are suitable for patients with a chronic disease which include Diabetes, Heart Disease, Coronary Disease and Obesity related risk factors just to name a few.

How do I make the appointment now that I have my GP Management Plan?

Simply phone the Hamilton Medical Group on 5572 2422 to arrange your appointment.

I want to make an appointment with the Diabetes Educator but do not fit the criteria for a GP Management Plan?

You can make an appointment at Western District Health Service located at Hamilton House, Allied Health Centre on Tyers Street.  

A referral is not required.

Telephone Allied Health reception on 03 5551 8349 to make your appointment.