Lay summary
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is pandemic, impacting ~422 million people worldwide. One of its complications is diabetic kidney disease (DKD), which is now the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). ESKD is a debilitating condition that leads to premature death without kidney dialysis or transplantation. Medications to prevent DKD are readily available but need to be introduced early, at the right doses, and to be taken long-term, with good adherence. General practice is readily accessible but often need specialist guidance on the best individual management. The proposed project aims to reduce progression of DKD through the introduction of a new integrated model of care where primary care teams are systematically supported by diabetes and renal specialist services in the metro-Auckland area. Support includes identifying patients who would benefit from intensification of care and advising on how this can best occur.