A holistic approach to support
Following a severe traumatic brain injury in 2015, Michael lost his sense of taste and smell. This significantly affected his relationship with food, enjoyment of meals and he began isolating himself when eating. Over time, these changes contributed to weight gain, elevated blood glucose levels and an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, alongside other health concerns that became increasingly difficult to manage.
In 2023, Michael connected with Better Health Network (BHN) and began working with a coordinated team of allied health professionals. Through physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology, Michael accessed practical, community-based support close to home. His care was tailored to the unique challenges of living without a sense of taste or smell, helping him improve his eating habits, increase his physical activity and better manage the long-term impacts of his injury.
Over the following 18 months, Michael made gradual and sustainable lifestyle changes. He developed healthier eating habits, maintained regular physical activity and improved his metabolic health, reducing his risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and other chronic health conditions. Along the way, he gained the knowledge, skills and confidence to take a more active role in managing his health.
When new concerns about his diet and wellbeing later emerged, Michael was re-referred to BHN by his GP. Thanks to his existing connection with the service, he was able to access support early, before his concerns escalated and required more intensive intervention.
For Michael, the value of community health was more than receiving treatment. It was having a trusted team that understood his circumstances and provided ongoing support as his needs changed over time. This continuity of care helped him maintain his independence and make lasting improvements to his health and wellbeing.
The multidisciplinary approach at BHN was a wonderful supplement to Alfred’s specialist clinics and outpatient clinics, and it was a fantastic way of giving me what I needed at the right time. It was a great support to help me transition back to being independent – it was a holistic approach.”
– Michael
Integrated support is at the heart of BHN's Integrated Chronic Disease Management program, which helps people living with conditions such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, chronic heart failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to better understand and manage their health through care coordination, case management, health coaching education and personalised support.
Michael's journey demonstrates how community health services can help people address chronic disease risk factors and access the right care at the right time, close to home. By providing coordinated, person-centred support, BHN helped Michael prevent future complications, better manage his health and remain connected to the support he needed. His story highlights the important role community health plays in supporting people to live well in the community and reducing the need for more intensive healthcare services.
Michael's story reflects a growing need across Victoria, where nearly half of all people are living with a chronic disease. Community health plays an important role in helping people manage chronic illness close to home through coordinated, preventative care that supports better health outcomes and reduces avoidable emergency demand. According to Community Health First's Impact Report 2024-25, chronic disease programs reduced emergency department presentations from 85% to 32%.
As demand for chronic disease support continues to grow, BHN is pleased to be working with Community Health First and the Victorian Government on the new Care Pathways for Chronic Disease Program, helping strengthen access to coordinated care for people living with chronic conditions.
