Larry also advocated a ‘multidisciplinary team approach’ to facilitate the care of people with diabetes. This ensured that people with diabetes utilising the Programme had support from a variety of health practitioners (e.g., specialist physicians, nurse educators, dietitians, podiatrists biokineticists and ophthalmologists), according to their clinical needs.

Tafelberg Medical Aid Scheme was the first medical funder to participate in the Programme with a grand total of 13 members under CDE management. Over the years, many more medical funders, healthcare practitioners and health consumers have benefitted from the sound principles created by Larry Distiller and the extensive national network of CDE-trained and -accredited healthcare practitioners – from funding to treatment to education and world-class clinical outcomes.

Sadly, Larry Distiller, passed away suddenly in December 2021 leaving behind an unsurpassable legacy.  He enriched the lives of many – his colleagues and friends, but most importantly the countless people to whom Larry brought life and health.

Today the CDE is a vibrant organisation driven by our desire to put people with chronic health needs first.  Our national team of dedicated practitioners continue to strive to realise Larry’s amazing vision for all. We are committed to implementing the principles of care he developed and achieving the healthy outcomes that follow.