Poster Presentation ESA-SRB-ANZOS 2025 in conjunction with ENSA

Filling the Gap for an Australian Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Training Program (128518)

Matthew Y Lim 1 2 , Emily J Meyer 2 , David Jesudason 2 , Peter J Psaltis 1 3 , Shilpa Jesudason 2 , Jessica A Marathe 1 3 , Adam J Nelson 1
  1. Cardiology, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  2. Endocrinology, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  3. Vascular Research Centre, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia

Aims

Australia faces a rising burden of obesity and cardiometabolic disease, with disproportionately poor outcomes in First Nations and rural populations [1,2]. Medical obesity management has typically Endocrinology's domain, however Cardiology and Nephrology are developing interest. Despite increasing recognition of cardiometabolic syndrome, no formal Cardio-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) training program exists. We aim to establish a structured, interdisciplinary program to address critical gaps in knowledge, care, equity, and outcomes.

Methods

To develop this proposal, we drew from local sub-specialty experts and international CKM programs, examining curriculum structures and training models [3,4]. Key elements such as advanced diagnostics, therapeutic strategies, mentorship frameworks, and cultural competency were considered.

Results

Insights from proposed global programs emphasise the importance of a comprehensive curriculum, integrating cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology over 12 months. This would be offered to trainees from any of these specialties, as well as general physicians (requiring 18 months), with 6 months spent in each rotation outside their primary training program. Essential components include clinical rotations, community-based training, and research opportunities. Specialised obesity clinics during the endocrinology term will facilitate familiarity and expertise in managing type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and its many complications, whilst chronic renal failure and cardiovascular risk management will be explored in-depth during their respective rotations. Cultural immersion experiences would foster relevant Indigenous health expertise, while digital health solutions would improve access in remote areas. A structured mentorship framework would support professional development. We will seek accreditation through the Royal Australasian College of Physicians to formalise this within Australian medicine.

Conclusion

An Australian CKM fellowship represents a transformative step toward bridging healthcare gaps, addressing disparities and equipping specialists with the skills to manage complex multi-system conditions. Establishing this program will improve interdisciplinary patient care and drive equitable health outcomes for patients living with obesity and cardiometabolic syndrome across Australia.

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  2. 2. Brown A, Carrington MJ, McGrady M, Lee G, Zeitz C, Krum H, et al. Cardiometabolic risk and disease in Indigenous Australians: the heart of the heart study. International journal of cardiology. 2014 Feb 15;171(3):377-83
  3. 3. McCarthy CP, Chang LS, Vaduganathan M. Training the next generation of cardiometabolic specialists. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2020 Mar 17;75(10):1233-7.
  4. 4. Saxon DR, Reiter-Brennan C, Blaha MJ, Eckel RH. Cardiometabolic medicine: development of a new subspecialty. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2020 Jul;105(7):2095-104.