At Clarence Diabetes Service, Nurse Practitioner Michelle Johnson is making a real difference in the lives of people managing diabetes.
Since completing her Master of Nurse Practitioner degree in 2023, Michelle has been dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centred care alongside a skilled team of diabetes educators and dietitians.
Michelle’s journey in healthcare began in 1995 when she graduated with a nursing degree from Southern Cross University in Lismore. She went on to focus on rural critical care, earning a Postgraduate Diploma at Melbourne University in 1998.
From there, her passion for nursing took her across Australia and beyond, working in hospitals from Darwin to Alice Springs and in remote Aboriginal communities including Nhulunbuy in north-east Arnhem Land.
Her current role is shaped by her commitment to health promotion and prevention.
As a Diabetes Nurse Practitioner, Michelle provides expert care to children, adults, pregnant women and families managing Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, as well as gestational diabetes.
"Diabetes care is complex, but with the right team and approach, we can make a huge impact on people’s lives," Michelle said.
Michelle’s leadership has played a key role in the growth of diabetes services in the Clarence Valley.
Starting as a Diabetes Educator in Coffs Harbour in 2010, she moved into a Clinical Nurse Consultant role in Grafton in 2017 when the service had only two positions covering Grafton and Maclean.
Thanks to increased funding and team expansion, she has been able to help streamline clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
"With the ability to prescribe insulin and other diabetes medications, we’ve improved efficiency and reduced wait times," she said.
"Our goal is always to help people manage their condition and stay out of hospital, so they can continue living full and healthy lives."
Despite the challenges of limited rural resources, Michelle remains passionate about her work.
"The best part is the shared experience with my team," she said.
"We support each other every day and that makes a huge difference."
When she’s not making a difference in healthcare, Michelle loves exploring Australia’s stunning landscapes, whether she’s hiking, horse riding or enjoying time at the beach.
With her knowledge, dedication and leadership, Michelle Johnson continues to shape the future of diabetes care in the Clarence Valley, ensuring patients receive the support they need to thrive.