Annabel Thurlow from Action Diabetes is taking care of people in the Upper Hunter with specialist clinics in a number of locations around the region.

One, in particular, is really unique – at Nelliebelles at Murrurundi. 

While holding a diabetes clinic in the area’s most popular cafe may seem rather odd, the building was originally a doctor’s surgery and it has been so enthusiastically received by patients, staff and clinicians – indeed everyone.

We are unsure if it’s Marg Cooper’s rather distinct and warm hospitality (not to mention the food) or Ms Thurlow’s incredible expertise and lively, engaging approach to dealing with diabetes.

Either way, everyone wins, especially the patients. 

Clinics are also held monthly at Dr Emad Jasem’s Merriwa Surgery, Dr Nomad Jaweed’s Denman Practice, Aberdeen Medical Centre, Scone Medical Practice and multiple clinics each week at the Brook St Medical Centre.

Ms Thurlow has a wealth of experience with diabetes, in fact more than 25 years’ worth. 

Besides being a credentialed diabetes educator and a certified insulin pump trainer, she’s completed extensive post-graduate studies and is a diabetes nurse practitioner. 

Her passion is people, pumps (insulin pumps, that is) and stabilising insulin levels. 

She is highly-sought after by drug companies, medical companies and diabetes’ associations as a speaker and educator.

She also sits on a number of state and national diabetes advisory panels. 

Together with her partner Tars, they have a company called Action Allied Healthcare, which specialises in all things diabetes, including nutritionalists and exercise physiologists. 

Headquartered in Nelson Bay, they and their staff run a total of 11 clinics along the coast and stretching well into the Upper Hunter under the Action Diabetes name.

“It is easy for patients,” Tars said.

“They can see Annabel at one of her clinics in the Upper Hunter.

“Whether it is insulin adjustment, interpretation of pathology, prescription adjustment of medicines, lifestyle modification or simply coming in to understand diabetes, its effects and successful management, she provides the service – and with a warming smile. 

“Those needing or contemplating insulin pumps can also see Annabel.

“The other great bit of news is that it is easy to see her.

“She comes here under a government program, the Priority Allied Health Service (PAHS), which is managed by Hunter Primary Care. 

“All GPs can simply refer patients with diabetes, pre-diabetes or people who will potentially develop diabetes via a PAHS referral form.

“If this presents any difficulty whatsoever, patients can simply ring Action Diabetes directly on 4981 5825 and talk to Julian or myself.

“The Action Diabetes motto is ‘Simply Better Care’.

“Something that Annabel and I take great pride in, particularly in being able to deliver it to rural areas as we are both country born and bred.”