The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) delivers diabetes-related products at subsidised prices and provides information and support services to people with diabetes. On behalf of Diabetes Australia and the Commonwealth Department of Health, AHA conducted an independent review of the NDSS Product Schedule.

AHA examined the appropriateness and currency of products on the list, in terms of best practice stock management and to reduce wastage.

AHA’s review included:

• Analysis of product usage by patients, to identify supply volumes, trends and relationships
• Industry consultation
• Presentation of findings for consideration by Diabetes Australia’s health professional advisory body (MESAC) to consider medical, clinical and self-management impact of Product Schedule changes
• Development of a communication strategy for patients, regarding changes to the Product Schedule made following the review
• Development of a set of recommendations regarding future product listing and delisting processes.

Findings were presented to MESAC and their suggestions incorporated in AHA’s final report, which included recommendations for changes to the current Product Schedule and the future listing/delisting process.