With the ageing of Australia's population, chronic disease medical costs are soaring. This is largely due to the number of baby boomers moving through middle age towards retirement.  Consequently there is a need for strategies and services that both prevent the onset of chronic disease and manage their impact once people have developed these illnesses.

• Features of chronic diseases:
• have complex and multiple causes
• usually have a gradual onset, although they can have sudden onset and acute stages
• occur across the life cycle, although they become more prevalent with older age
• can compromise quality of life through physical limitations and disability
• are long term and persistent, leading to a gradual deterioration of health
• are the most common and leading cause of premature mortality.

Disease management aims at improving a chronically ill person’s quality of life and thereby reduce health care costs. It involves the implementation of evidence-based guidelines and practices that better manage people’s illnesses. An effective disease management service coordinates this complex care helping people stay out of hospital and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Disease management focuses on chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, mental health conditions and renal failure. Disease management programs usually are offered as a telephone service, involving interaction with trained professionals, and have a strong educational and self-management element advising people how to take care of themselves. Disease management aims to support and complement the GP/patient relationship.