Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026

Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
Healthcare for People With Diabetes in Pregnancy: A National Survey Comparing Metropolitan and Rural Care Delivery in
Ellen Payne1, Susan Heaney2, Clare Collins3
1University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia.
Background:
Management of diabetes in pregnancy requires input from multiple health professionals throughout the course of an individual's pregnancy. Implementing healthcare delivery that suits the local context of a metropolitan or rural region may contribute to improvements in care delivery and pregnancy and birthing outcomes.
Aims:
To compare healthcare delivery for people with diabetes in pregnancy in metropolitan and rural areas of Australia.
Materials And Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted, with questions focused on healthcare delivery for women with diabetes in pregnancy, including the multidisciplinary care provided. Data were collected via a nationwide survey of health professionals currently involved in the healthcare management of people with diabetes in pregnancy in Australia. Survey data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results:
The main aspects of healthcare delivery were similar between metropolitan and rural respondents. The proportion of health professionals offering face-to-face services was greater in rural areas (n = 38, 100%) compared to metropolitan (n = 34, 71%). Rural respondents (21%) reported they were collocated with an endocrinologist and 48% with an obstetrician. This was compared to 71% of metropolitan respondents reporting being collocated with an endocrinologist, and 63% with an obstetrician.
Conclusions:
This research offers direction as to potential considerations when planning and implementing models of care in rural areas. Additional research confirming the priorities within the rural context is needed to support the development of optimal care delivery for pregnant people with diabetes living in rural regions.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
Pathophysiology of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility,...
Diabetes Mellitus: Overview and Type I Subtype
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin, and individuals with...
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones

