Sharing is caring when it comes to chronic illness

Sharing stories and health information with friends and families gives strength to Indigenous Australians living with chronic illness, a new study has found. Conducted by the Menzies Centre for Health Policy based at The Australian National University and the University of Sydney, People I Can Call On examined the experiences and views of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with heart disease, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A report on the study's key findings was launched by Minister for Indigenous Health, the Hon Warren Snowdon MP at Parliament House today. Director of the Menzies Centre, Mr Bob Wells, said the study's report provides important insight into the real-life issues and day-to-day realities of Indigenous people living with chronic illness and should inform future health policy. 'People I Can Call On describes the great strength of family and community networks that support Indigenous people with chronic illness. It shows the importance of family in motivating people to better care for themselves and to be an example to their children and grandchildren so that they grow up knowing and practicing good health behaviours. 'It also reveals the importance of health services that provide safe and culturally appropriate services and treat their consumers with respect.