Do It For Life Information for GPs and health professionals :: SA Health

Do It For Life Information for GPs and health professionals

A lifestyle modification program to help prevent chronic disease

GPs and health professionals often see people at high risk of preventable chronic disease and want suitable referral options, particularly for people from a disadvantaged or low socioeconomic background.

The free Do It For Life program provides a referral point for people at risk to have access to ongoing support to make and maintain long-term lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle Advisors

Lifestyle Advisors and Lifestyle Support Officers assess, monitor, support and provide feedback to patients over a period of 3 to 12 months. 

All Lifestyle Advisors and Support Officers have received training in the Flinders Living Well Program – self management support for the prevention of chronic disease, along with training in each SNAPS risk factor (smoking, nutrition, alcohol, physical activity and stress).

They assist the patient to set goals and help to develop an action plan which may include referrals to other health professionals.

Lifestyle Advisors and Support Officers are non-clinical roles so it is expected that the referring health professional will continue to observe the patient's progress while they are on the program. The referring GP will also receive updates on the progress of the patient.

Eligibility criteria and referral guidelines

To be eligible the following criteria must be met:

  • aged 18 or over
  • have a total risk score of 12 or more on the Do It For Life Referral and AUSDRISK form (PDF 326KB) - see back of the form
  • does not already have a diagnosed chronic disease
  • medical practitioner must complete the Do It For Life referral form
  • at least one current SNAPS risk factor

GPs may use Health assessments MBS items 701, 703, 705, 707 and 715 to undertake a risk assessment. 

GPs may also choose to undertake an assessment and referral for eligible patients who do not qualify for the above MBS items but who would benefit from the program.

The GP and Health Professional Information Sheet (PDF 149KB) includes guidelines on referral.