The Exercise & Sports Science Awards recognise outstanding accredited professionals who demonstrate a depth of knowledge and commitment to exercise and sports science through their practice and advocacy.
Practice of the Year recognises outstanding practices that provide exceptional services and programs to their clients, or have developed innovative services or service delivery models, across the spectrum of the health, exercise and sporting sectors.
Congratulations to the 2023 Practice of the Year: Exercise for Rehabilitation and Health!
Nicole French has been honoured with the prestigious ESSA Practice of the Year award for her groundbreaking work in diabetes care through the Exercise for Rehabilitation and Health’s (EFRHs) program, which is gaining national acclaim for its innovative approach to diabetes remission.
The diabetes care program at EFRH, primarily led by Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs), implements the findings of the UK DiRECT Trial, uniquely tailored to an Australian context.
The program focuses on three key aspects: real food emphasis, combined dietary and exercise interventions, and integrated medical support. This holistic approach aims to foster sustainable lifestyle changes, with the ultimate goal of achieving diabetes remission and improving overall health markers.
Central to the program's success is the collaboration between AEPs and General Practitioners (GPs), ensuring participant safety and support. This integrated team framework promotes lasting lifestyle changes and overall well-being by systematising care and enhancing communication among all providers.
EFRH’s vision extends beyond their immediate practice, aiming to make diabetes remission services accessible to more Australians. By supporting AEP colleagues across the country, EFRH hopes to broaden the impact of their effective model of care.
In addition to the ESSA award, EFRH was honored with the 2023 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Award. This accolade highlights the company's commitment to advancing healthcare, recognising the significant contributions of AEPs in health care prevention and management.
“Through our working model of care, we have paved the way for the introduction of a Type 2 diabetes remission clinic. This initiative reflects the evolving role of exercise physiology in effectively addressing complex health challenges,” said Nicole.
“Our impacts are amplified through our national advocacy efforts and partnerships that position us as industry experts and first choice providers. Such efforts and partnerships have influenced national legislative reforms and health policy changes.”