Diabetes is defined by the body’s inability to control blood glucose. Diabetes is a chronic condition, which can cause kidney failure, eye disease, foot ulceration and a higher risk of heart disease if not well managed.

Nurse Leigh Cashen is our specialist diabetes nurse with a post graduate paper in Advanced Diabetes Nursing. She is able to provide education and support to those newly diagnosed with type one or two diabetes. This role includes support in managing blood sugars and insulin titration.

Anyone with diabetes is entitled to a free annual review to screen for the risk of developing diabetes complications and the provision of ongoing education. Leigh works closely with the diabetes nurse specialist from Dunstan Hospital who visits Wanaka to support more complex patients and children.

Leigh is also happy to talk to those at risk of developing type two diabetes and support them to make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk.