West Gippsland Implements Positive Pregnancy Program and Improves Outcomes for Gestational Diabetes

Concerns regarding maternal obesity, excess gestational weight gain (GWG) and increased maternal and neonatal morbidity were reported by obstetricians at West Gippsland. Additionally, it was noted that the referral process for dietetic intervention was ad hoc.

To remedy the above issue the following practices were put into place:
Routine referrals from obstetrician/midwife for one hour 1x1 initial assessment with Accredited Practising Dietician was built into care model
Health coaching / dietary advice given to patients is based on the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating
Reviews with dieticians were conducted monthly or as required

Outcomes data has been positive and indicates that participants who attended three or more appointments gained significantly less weight than those who attended only the initial assessment ± one review (p<0.05).

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