Aboriginal Health
Our goal is to enhance access to high-quality primary health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across our region, while promoting disease prevention and health education.
This work includes conducting needs assessments, strategic planning, fostering multi-program collaborations, building cross-sector connections, and supporting commissioned programs and services.
At Healthy North Coast (HNC), we proudly acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Australia and their enduring connection to land, sea, and community. We are committed to partnering with Aboriginal organisations and communities to achieve meaningful improvements in health and wellbeing outcomes.
Through our partnership agreement with the six Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations in the North Coast, we place Aboriginal health at the forefront of our priorities. This commitment spans all our programs, including those specifically co-designed with Aboriginal people. We understand that sustainable progress depends on strong cross-sector partnerships and the leadership of Aboriginal organisations and communities.
Our goal is to enhance access to high-quality primary healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our region, while promoting disease prevention and health education. This work includes conducting needs assessments, strategic planning, fostering multi-program collaborations, building cross-sector connections, and supporting commissioned programs and services.
Aboriginal Medical Services Partnership
Partnering to Improve Aboriginal Health Outcomes
In September 2023, Healthy North Coast and 6 North Coast Aboriginal Medical Services celebrated a landmark agreement, marking a crucial milestone in improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the North Coast.
This agreement aligned with the ‘National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 20212031,’ focusing on ensuring that ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people enjoy long, healthy lives that are centred in culture, with access to services that are prevention-focused, culturally safe and responsive, equitable and free of racism.’
This partnership enhanced existing agreements with the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts, contributing to a more integrated approach across primary and acute healthcare systems.
The Agreement supported several key achievements:
- Developing a join North Coast Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Needs Assessment
- Creating an Aboriginal-specific Mental Health, Suicide Prevention and Alcohol and Other Drug service model
- Establishing a collaborative Integrated Team Care service model
Aboriginal Medical Services on NSW North Coast
AMS Services
Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS) provide a range of culturally appropriate health and wellbeing services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living on the North Coast.
This includes services and care for pregnancy, child health, diabetes, heart disease, mental health, counselling, nutrition and dental, as well as access to GPs and specialists.
Each AMS offers different services so it is best to contact your local service to find out what programs and services are available.
Find your AMS local service provider.
Social and Emotional wellbeing (SEWB) programs
HNC and Aboriginal Medical Services Supporting Social and Emotional Wellbeing
Healthy North Coast is proud to partner with Aboriginal Medical Services (AMSs) across our region to deliver social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) programs. These programs are offering culturally safe and holistic care to support Aboriginal people and communities.
SEWB programs support individuals, families, and communities to strengthen mental health and navigate challenges such as addiction, grief, loss, trauma, and family disruption. The program delivered by the AMS respond to community need are built on the foundation of cultural connection, resilience, and community empowerment, ensuring care is delivered with respect for Aboriginal culture and identity.
Learn more about the programs in action.
Integrated Team Care (ITC) Program
Integrated Team Care (ITC) Program
On behalf of the Australian Government, Healthy North Coast partners with Aboriginal Medical Services to support Aboriginal people with chronic illnesses to manage their conditions.
The aims of the ITC Program are to:
- Improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic health conditions through access to care coordination, multidisciplinary care, and support for self-management; and
- Iimprove access to culturally appropriate mainstream primary care services (including but not limited to general practice, allied health and specialists) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Please note that all Aboriginal people in the North Coast region that are eligible to receive support can access the program.
Complete the ITC client experience survey
We are interested in hearing from community about their experiences with ITC service providers, and other specialist and allied health services.
By sharing your experiences about accessing the ITC program, you’re helping us improve health programs and services for your community.
This survey is conducted by Healthy North Coast and Aboriginal Medical Services. Your valuable feedback will contribute to program improvements.
Participation prize
You can opt in to participate in a prize draw for completing the survey. There will be four $50 grocery vouchers randomly drawn each 6 months. Name and phone number is required.
Innovate RAP
Healthy North Coast Reconciliation Action Plan 2024 to 2026
Our reconciliation vision is to work towards a better future together, consisting of historical truth-telling, developing and strengthening trusting and reciprocal relationships, and equitable outcomes. At Healthy North Coast, we will collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and individuals to enhance partnerships that build capacity for meeting the health and wellbeing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with respect and understanding of culture.
The Healthy North Coast Board, executives and staff are committed to implementing each action and deliverable within our Innovate RAP and acknowledge it is a key priority for our organisation.
Cultural Safety Training
2024 Healthy North Coast Cultural Safety Training
715 Health Check
Promote Better Health with a 715 Aboriginal Health Check
The 715 Aboriginal Health Check is a comprehensive, culturally appropriate health assessment designed to support the physical, social, and emotional well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across all ages.
This annual health check ensures that individuals receive tailored healthcare, with a focus on early detection, diagnosis, and intervention for common and preventable conditions. It’s a proactive step to improve health outcomes and support longer, healthier lives in First Nations communities.
- Physical Health: Routine checks such as blood pressure, weight, vision, and overall health measurements.Chronic Disease Screening: Identifying risks for chronic conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory issues, and kidney disease.
- Social and Emotional Well-being: Mental health assessments to address emotional challenges, family or social stressors, and support networks.Preventive Care: Guidance on lifestyle factors like nutrition, exercise, and smoking cessation, as well as ensuring immunisations are up-to-date.
- Cultural Considerations: Care that is culturally respectful and supportive, addressing the unique health needs of First Nations people.
A 715 Health Check is a vital step in taking control of your health. By regularly accessing this free service, you can:
- Understand your health better: Gain insights into your physical, social, and emotional well-being.
- Prevent serious conditions: Identify potential health issues like diabetes, heart disease, or kidney problems early, when they’re easier to manage.
- Access additional services: Receive referrals to allied health professionals, specialists, or community health programs for ongoing support.
It’s free and accessible: Available annually through your GP or local Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS).
Offering the 715 Health Check is an opportunity to:
- Build trust with First Nations patients: Provide care in a way that acknowledges and respects cultural differences.
- Contribute to Closing the Gap: Support better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by addressing health inequities.Deliver holistic care: Assess not just physical health, but also social and emotional well-being, ensuring a whole-person approach.
- Proactively manage chronic conditions: Identify risks early and develop preventive care plans tailored to individual needs.
- Access Medicare support: The 715 Health Check is supported under the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS), with additional pathways for allied health services.
Visit your local Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) or speak to your GP to arrange a 715 Health Check. It’s free, and you can access it annually.
View list of local AMS Services
