A powerful stride forward: ADEA proudly announces first Aboriginal Health Practitioner to qualify as CDE

On 20 September 2024, ADEA proudly announced that Louise Gilbey has become the first Aboriginal Health Practitioner to qualify as a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE). This achievement is recognised as a significant advancement in diabetes education and care.

Louise, based in Mount Isa, Queensland, completed ADEA’s credentialing pathway with support from the 2022 ADEA Research and Dixie Klemm Scholarship. With over 20 years of experience as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner and a Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management, she is dedicated to providing culturally sensitive education in rural and remote areas.

ADEA CEO Susan Davidson expressed pride in Louise’s accomplishment, highlighting its importance in increasing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander CDEs and ensuring equitable access to diabetes care.

Since 2021, ADEA has awarded 13 scholarships to First Nations health professionals through its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship Program.