Abstract

Chronic conditions are one of the greatest health challenges facing Australia in the 21st Century. It is estimated that currently around 2.5 million Australians have a chronic condition and by 2016 this will rise to 3.5 million. Evidence in Australia and overseas suggests that self-management programs can assist those with chronic conditions to improve their quality of life, by equipping them with knowledge, skills, and confidence to better manage disease-related problems.