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Professional Diploma of Chronic Disease and Conditions

Achieve accomplished knowledge in the prevention, treatment and ongoing management of common chronic illnesses.

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Professional Diploma of Chronic Disease and Conditions

CPD

42 hrs Education
52 hrs Performance
39 hrs Outcome

Delivery

Fully online
Learn from
anywhere

Duration

105.5 hours
Self-paced
Start anytime

Overview

In this online course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the management of thyroid conditions, asthma, childhood chronic illness, osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation, and more, to support your patients and reduce the impact of comorbidities.

Who it is for and what you will learn:

  • Acquire near-expert knowledge on how to provide early primary care intervention to optimise patient outcomes for those with (or at risk of) chronic health conditions.

  • This course is for medical doctors, International Medical Graduates, registered nurses, and degree-qualified health professionals.

  • CPD-accredited and university-reviewed.

Your education pathway

Professional Certificate

Establish foundational clinical knowledge and essential skills.

Learn more

Advanced Certificate

Develop advanced techniques and diagnostic capabilities.

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Professional Diploma

Master complex cases and achieve high-level clinical proficiency.

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Learning outcomes

  • Study medically unexplained symptoms and focus on clinical cases, including long-term conditions in children’s health. 

  • Provide immediate chronic health management and help to prevent and address comorbidities.

  • With an estimated $38 billion per year spent on care for people with chronic health conditions, learn to optimise patient outcomes with early primary care intervention.

  • Help reduce the burden of chronic disease, which is the underlying cause of 90 per cent of deaths in Australia and affect about 58 per cent of all presenting patients.

Course contents

Thyroid conditions
Master the essentials of diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders with the "Thyroid Conditions" course. Designed for healthcare professionals, this program explores the anatomy and physiology of the thyroid gland, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, and real-world patient cases. Through evidence-based insights, you’ll learn to differentiate between primary and secondary thyroid issues, identify key symptoms, interpret diagnostic tests, and manage lifelong treatments. Gain confidence in delivering comprehensive care for thyroid conditions, including surgical and oncological considerations, while optimising patient outcomes in clinical practice.
Atrial fibrillation
The "Atrial Fibrillation" course provides healthcare professionals with an in-depth understanding of the diagnosis, management, and treatment options for atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia worldwide. This course covers essential topics such as risk factor identification, anticoagulation therapy, and the use of diagnostic tools. Participants will also explore key management strategies, including rhythm and rate control, and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration for optimal patient outcomes. Designed for general practitioners, this course equips professionals with the knowledge needed to manage AF and reduce associated risks like stroke and heart failure.
Unexplained symptoms - symptoms with no firm diagnosis
"Unexplained Symptoms" delves into the challenges of diagnosing and managing patients with persistent symptoms that lack a clear cause. This course equips healthcare professionals with evidence-based strategies to approach these complex cases, fostering patient-centred care that emphasises empathy, symptom management, and quality of life improvement. Through theoretical insights and practical case studies, participants gain tools to navigate medical uncertainty effectively.
Asthma
Enhance your understanding and management of asthma with this comprehensive course tailored for healthcare professionals. Covering everything from pathogenesis and diagnosis to the latest management guidelines, this course delves into pediatric and adult asthma care, asthma emergencies, and specialised topics like thunderstorm asthma. Learn evidence-based approaches to create personalised asthma action plans and manage comorbidities effectively. This course equips you with the tools to improve patient outcomes, reduce exacerbations, and provide holistic care for individuals with asthma.
Papulosquamous disorders: Psoriasis, lichen planus and pityriasis rosea
"Papulosquamous Disorders: Psoriasis, Lichen Planus, and Pityriasis Rosea" offers healthcare professionals a comprehensive understanding of these dermatological conditions. The course covers clinical presentations, diagnostic techniques, and evidence-based treatment strategies for each disorder. Presented by Prof. Richard Usatine, this course equips practitioners with the skills to differentiate, manage, and refer cases as needed, ensuring optimal patient outcomes in dermatological care.
Osteoporosis
The "Osteoporosis" course is a comprehensive program designed for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of osteoporosis diagnosis, management, and prevention. Covering topics such as bone physiology, fracture risk assessment, and the latest pharmacological treatments, this course equips practitioners with the tools to effectively treat osteoporosis in different populations, including men, women, and younger patients. Through evidence-based guidance, participants will learn how to assess bone health, implement preventive measures, and manage osteoporosis in clinical practice to reduce fracture risk and improve patient outcomes.
Managing long term childhood conditions

Managing long term childhood conditions
The "Managing Long-Term Childhood Conditions" course offers healthcare professionals the knowledge and tools to effectively support children with chronic illnesses. Covering common childhood conditions like asthma, allergies, and developmental disorders, the course emphasizes a family-centered approach to care. Through practical frameworks, such as the FAMILY mnemonic, case studies, and communication strategies, participants will learn to manage complex consultations, develop treatment plans, and engage allied health professionals. This course also highlights the importance of early intervention, education, and family dynamics in promoting positive outcomes.

Inflammatory arthritis
Understand and manage complex inflammatory arthritis conditions with our "Inflammatory Arthritis" course. Tailored for healthcare professionals, this evidence-based program delves into key types of inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout, pseudogout, and psoriatic arthritis. Gain insights into early diagnosis, treatment strategies, and patient care through interactive modules and real-world case studies. Explore the latest guidelines for using DMARDs, biologics, and non-pharmacological therapies to optimise patient outcomes. Whether you're a primary care provider or a specialist, this course equips you with the tools to confidently diagnose and treat inflammatory arthritis.

Meet your instructors

Dr Joe Kosterich Course Chair Dr Joe Kosterich MBBS
Dr Alice Lam Dr Alice Lam MBChB FRACGP
Dr Joe Kosterich Course Chair Dr Joe Kosterich MBBS
Dr Simon Shingler Dr Simon Shingler MBChB(Hons) FRNZCGP
Dr Alice Lam Dr Alice Lam MBChB FRACGP
Dr Alice Lam Dr Alice Lam MBChB FRACGP
Professor Richard Usatine Professor Richard Usatine MD PhD
Assoc. Professor Debbie Kors Course Chair Assoc. Professor Debbie Kors MBBS (first class honours)

Other ways to study this topic

Workshop

Complete your certificate online, then build practical skills in the accompanying optional hands-on workshop.

View workshop dates

Short courses

Study selected topics from this certificate as focused, standalone short courses for targeted upskilling in under 10 hours. 

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HealthCert 365

Access selected content from this certificate, plus 4,000+ hours of other CPD across a wide range of clinical areas.

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CPD accreditation and course details

CPD Accreditation and Activities

Accredited CPD activities in this certificate

Each module in this certificate is an RACGP and ACRRM approved CPD activity. The certificate provides 50 hours of CPD for medical professionals in Australia.*

RACGP Activity Number ACRRM Activity Number Activity Title Education Hours Performance Hours
788747 38232 Thyroid conditions 5.0 6.0
788775 38235 Atrial fibrillation 4.0 6.0
788419 38637 Unexplained symptoms - symptoms with no firm diagnosis 5.0 6.0
549750 38183 Asthma 4.0 6.0
404031 38970 Papulosquamous disorders: Psoriasis, lichen planus and pityriasis rosea 4.0 6.0
447501  38175 Osteoporosis 4.0 6.0
788767 38234 Managing long term childhood conditions 4.5 6.0
788339 38636 Inflammatory arthritis 5.5 6.0
Total hours 36.0 48.0

View the CPD Hours for all HealthCert Education activities. 

Outcome measurement

The comprehensive, peer-reviewed clinical audit associated with this Professional Diploma provides the minimum annual CPD outcome measurement hours.

*See our FAQs for more information about annual CPD requirements.

Entry Requirements

The Professional Diploma of Chronic Disease & Conditions is for physicians and degree-qualified medical professionals.

The prerequisite for this Professional Diploma course is the successful completion of the HealthCert Advanced Certificate of Chronic Disease & Conditions (or a qualification deemed equivalent).

Participants do not have to pass an IELTS test but, as the courses are delivered in English, proficiency in listening, reading and writing English is assumed.

Participants will require access to a computer/laptop, an internet connection and a basic level of technology proficiency to access and navigate the online learning portal.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

Participants who have successfully completed the modules on prostate conditions & checks and prostate cancer in the Professional Certificate of Men’s Health, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) in the Professional Certificate of Women’s Health, or obesity in the Advanced Certificate of Women’s Health will be granted recognition of prior learning (RPL) for these modules, thereby reducing the cost of this course and the time needed to complete it. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for more details. 

Further professionally recognised qualifications and prior studies may be recognised for entry into this course if the learning outcomes match exactly. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for an individual assessment of your prior qualifications and experience.

Certification

This certificate course meets the minimum 50 hours CPD annual requirement across all three mandatory CPD activity types.

Upon successful completion of the course requirements, participants will receive the Professional Diploma of Chronic Disease & Conditions and CPD hours.

This certificate course:

  • Is reviewed by Griffith University to comply with RACGP and ACRRM standards.

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).

  • Is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP).

  • Is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP). The HKCFP recognises all courses endorsed by the RACGP. Hours are calculated differently.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Dubai. The number of CPD hours must be stated on the certificate. Please contact PLD@dhcr.gov.ae for more information.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in the UK. CPD events overseas, applicable to a doctor’s scope of practice, may be submitted for revalidation. Please confirm with your Responsible Officer.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Canada through the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Contact mainprocredits@cfpc.ca for more information.

  • Meets World Federation of Medical Education standards.

  • Has been independently developed with subject experts and does not receive education grants from any pharmaceutical company.

To learn more about the delivery of certificates in Australia and overseas, please visit our FAQs.

Pathways

Professional Diploma Pathway

This course is the final stage of the three-part professional diploma pathway. The full pathway is Professional Certificate of Chronic Disease & Conditions, Advanced Certificate of Chronic Disease & Conditions, and Professional Diploma of Chronic Disease & Conditions.

Postgraduate Pathways

Graduates of the HealthCert Professional Diploma of Chronic Disease & Conditions may apply for a scholarship to an online Master degree from our partner in the UK. HealthCert recommends the MSc in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, MSc in Respiratory Medicine and MSc in Obesity and Weight Management which is awarded by University of South Wales. Please contact our UK partner directly regarding this scholarship: https://www.diploma-msc.com/s/healthcert

University quality-assured and CPD-accredited education provider

This organisation is an RACGP-accredited CPD provider under the RACGP CPD Program.

RACGP logo
ACRRM logo
AMA
Bond-Sep-09-2026-05-46-43-7981-AM
Griffith
IDS-1
Graz
Vienna
University of South Wales
Torrens
NSCC-2
Rila
UQ logo

Frequently asked questions

What are the costs and payment options of the course?

Fees will vary based on the program and study option selected (fully online vs online + optional practical workshop). Payments can be made upfront or in monthly instalments. Special rates and various payment options are available. GP registrars and doctors in training enjoy a scholarship of up to $500. Talk to us to learn more.

What is the Alumni Support Program?

Completion of any HealthCert course or attendance at an event will enable you to access the HealthCert Alumni Program which includes:

  • Access to special alumni rates for new courses when they are released.

  • Special alumni price for HealthCert Conferences.

  • Exclusive advanced access to HealthCert events.

  • Regular Alumni Webinars pertaining to the course(s) you have attended. These will provide content review of the course and an opportunity to discuss case studies.

  • Access to the video lectures as seen during the course(s) that you have attended.

How will I receive my certificate?

HealthCert Education is pleased to issue digital credentials for alumni. Digital credentials are a permanent online record of your successful completion of a HealthCert course and are issued to all course participants in addition to PDF certificates. If you are based in Australia, you also have the option to order a hard copy of your digital certificate for a small additional fee.

How long will the course take to complete?

The recommended study duration of this certificate course is listed at the top of this page. The estimated duration includes study of the pre-course activities and readings, online lectures, live tutorials, and online assessment. This self-paced course offers the flexibility of 100% online study in your own time, at your own pace, in your own home or office, with no mandatory face-to-face requirements. You are not required to be online at specific times but can view and replay video lectures at your convenience.

Is this course recognised in my country?

All HealthCert courses meet World Federation of Medical Education standards. This certificate course qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) in Australia. It is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) in New Zealand. It is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP) in China. It is a self-submitted activity in Dubai and the United Kingdom. It is a self-submitted activity through the College of Family Physicians in Canada. If you live or work outside one of the above-mentioned countries, please contact us on admin@healthcert.com to discuss whether this course can be recognised in your country.

Cancellation policy: What happens if I can't attend a practical workshop?

Course/workshop cancellations and transfers policy

Should you be unable to attend a course or practical workshop you have registered for, please inform us asap at admin@healthcert.com so we can make your place available to waitlisted doctors.

Charges may apply for course/workshop cancellations and/or transfers. Click here for details.

What our alumni say

Join thousands of doctors who have advanced their clinical practice with our certificate courses.

"HealthCert courses have become the standard by which you gauge all others."

Dr K. Abolarinwa

"Good, courses with excellent speakers. I particularly enjoyed the case study scenarios which helped to integrate the knowledge gained."

- Dr A. Tucker

"This is the pathway to improve your confidence and evolve into the GP you aspire to be"

- Dr S. Shinwari

Get in touch with us

Our Education Advisors can assist you with any queries and tailor your education pathway to suit your current expertise, interests and career goals.

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Richard Silsby

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Campbell Elton

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Loretta Blackborough

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Adam De Barros

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Jules Wynyard

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