Free health checks are now available in Chermside through Priceline Pharmacy, aiming to support early detection and prevention of type 2 diabetes.
Health Initiative Reaches Chermside
Chermside residents can now access free health checks at Priceline Pharmacy inside Westfield Shopping Centre as part of a national effort to improve early detection of type 2 diabetes and associated conditions.
Background and National Context
The initiative is part of National Diabetes Week 2025, which runs from 13 to 19 July. This campaign highlights the need for early identification and intervention for those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as better management for those already diagnosed.
Australia currently records over 1.3 million people living with type 2 diabetes, with an additional 500,000 believed to be undiagnosed. An estimated 2 million more are at high risk of developing the condition.
Check Process and Location Details
Priceline Chermside is one of more than 300 participating pharmacies nationally offering five-minute, self-service health checks using in-store digital health stations. These checks provide instant results related to cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors, including blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
The service is designed to offer residents a simple and accessible way to monitor their health without the need for appointments or referrals.
Economic and Health Impact
Recent modelling by Diabetes Australia indicates that all types of diabetes are now costing the Australian health system approximately $9.1 billion annually. The organisation has warned that if preventive action is not taken, up to 3.2 million Australians could be living with type 2 diabetes by 2050.
Health experts stress that lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce the risk. Up to 58 per cent of cases are considered preventable or able to be delayed through early intervention.
Tools and Support for Management
In addition to health checks, people managing type 2 diabetes are being encouraged to take advantage of support services such as the six-month GroAus trial, which offers tools for diet, physical activity, sleep, and self-care.
Digital health technology like continuous glucose monitors is also highlighted as a useful tool, although access remains limited for many due to affordability.
Community Response and Ongoing Efforts
The campaign has focused on increasing awareness and removing barriers to early diagnosis. Pharmacists and health workers in Chermside are now part of the broader effort to address rising case numbers and reduce strain on the healthcare system through proactive care.
What’s Next
Free health checks at Priceline Chermside provide a practical step in responding to Australia’s growing type 2 diabetes epidemic. The program supports early detection and prevention, aligning with broader efforts to reduce the long-term burden of diabetes-related complications on individuals and the health system.
Published 15-July-2025
