About Medibus
In May 2025, DAP+ launched the Medibus, a fully equipped mobile health clinic that brings specialist multidisciplinary teams to towns with limited access to healthcare, including endocrinologists, a diabetes educator, an Aboriginal health worker, a dietitian, and a podiatrist. These clinical teams provide direct patient care while also upskilling local general practitioners, nurses, and allied health professionals to support the delivery of gold‑standard diabetes care and management.
The Medibus operates as part of the broader DAP+, a partnership established in 2015 between Hunter New England Local Health District and Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network, and expanded in 2023 following a five‑year, $12.4 million investment from the Colonial Foundation.
The expansion of the Medibus initiative also strengthened partnerships with leading research organisations, including the Hunter Medical Research Institute and The University of Newcastle, to support innovative research and the evaluation of program impacts on patient outcomes and the broader health system.
Further information:
LEARN about the Medibus
Prof Shamasunder Acharya, Prof Alexis Hure & A/Prof Nicolette Hodyl explain the services provided.
Medibus build
Construction of the Medibus began in 2023, with Varley Corporation custom-fitting a light-rigid IVECO truck chassis. The Medibus features the artwork, ‘Sharing and Caring for Diabetes’, by Aboriginal artist Jodie Reynolds.
The mobile model of care was co-designed over 12 months by a multidisciplinary working group, involving extensive consultation and collaboration with GPs, Allied Health Professionals, local hospitals, Councils, and Aboriginal Land Councils.
The build was completed over a period of 16 months.
Key Features
A large two-section consultation room
Podiatry chair
Consultation desk with computers
Starlink internet
Point-of-care Affinion HbA1c analyser
Non-mydriatic retinal camera
Medication fridge
Automatic defibrillator
Blood pressure monitor, scales, stadiometer
Solar panels and lithium batteries for
24 hours of independent operation
Testimonials
