Compassion in action: ‘Community Conversation’ on end-of-life care in Coffs Harbour
On Friday 22 November, we held a Community Conversation in Coffs Harbour that brought together a dynamic group of community members and professionals to discuss the region’s palliative care and end-of-life needs. 16 participants attended, contributing to a rich dialogue and meaningful insights. The event welcomed diverse representation, including community members, home care and aged
How to take care of yourself in a heatwave
Hot weather in Australia is often an excuse to visit your local swimming spot or run through the sprinkler. However, the persistent soaring temperatures of a heatwave can lead to illnesses, such as heatstroke. In fact, from 2012 to 2022, extreme heat was the biggest cause of weather-related injuries and hospitalisations in Australia. Why is
If you could see UV, you would protect your skin
Overexposure to UV radiation is estimated to cause over 95% of skin cancers in Australia. Fortunately, primary prevention behaviours – including slipping on protective clothing, slopping on SPF50+ sunscreen, slapping on a broad brimmed hat, seeking shade, and sliding on sunglasses – are highly effective in reducing the risk of developing skin cancer. If you
There is support available during the holiday season
The holiday season can be a challenging time, so reach out for advice and support to manage your stress and wellbeing. It is normal at times to feel sad, stressed, angry or anxious, including during the holiday period. If you are finding that you are feeling this way more than usual, or it is affecting
Coping with grief during the holiday season
Grief during the festive season can feel overwhelming, but there are meaningful ways to cope and find comfort. Palliative Care Australia‘s guidance includes acknowledging and celebrating loved ones through rituals like sharing memories or lighting a candle, taking time for self-care, and recognising that mixed emotions during the holidays are normal. Their advice also highlights
Accessible dental services for aged care residents
MNCLHD Public Dental Services offers accessible options for aged care residents in need of dental care. Eligible NSW residents with a Medicare card and a concession card (Health Care, Pensioner Concession, or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card) can access services through public dental clinics or via the Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme (OHFFSS). The OHFFSS
Explore the National Palliative Care Projects Hub
The National Palliative Care Projects Hub, funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care, is a one-stop resource for all things palliative care. The hub features training programs, information, and tools designed to deepen understanding and improve access to quality care. From healthcare professionals to carers, the hub provides support for everyone involved in
On-site pharmacists: Enhancing medication safety in aged care
Safe and effective medication management is critical in aged care, and the ACOP program addresses this need with funding for on-site credentialed pharmacists. These professionals work collaboratively with GPs, nurses, and care teams to review medications, optimise treatments, and enhance the quality of life for residents. On-site pharmacists also play a vital role during transitions
Integrated care, better outcomes: The new model for aged care
Over the past 8 weeks, Healthy North Coast was thrilled to be joined by around 50 professionals to brainstorm the barriers and enablers in joining care systems to support residents in aged care to receive quality care at the right time and the right place and avoid unnecessary hospitalisation. There was representation from GPs, RACHs,
Celebrating one year of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics on the North Coast
Pictured L-R: Sam Ledger (Coffs Harbour Medicare UCC), Kash Reddy (Healthy North Coast), Monika Wheeler (CEO Healthy North Coast), Tara Welsh (Coffs Harbour Medicare UCC) It’s been one year since the Medicare Urgent Care Clinics on the North Coast – Coffs Harbour and Lismore – opened their doors. Medicare UCCs ease the pressure on hospitals
MyMedicare: Strengthening GP connections in aged care
The MyMedicare program is making waves across the Mid and North Coast as GPs actively invite aged care residents to register. This free, voluntary system links residents with their regular GP and primary care team, fostering stronger connections and improving health outcomes without storing clinical health data. For residents, registering with MyMedicare provides significant benefits,
Office hours for the holiday season
From all of us at Healthy North Coast, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday season. Our offices will be closed from Monday 23 December and will reopen on Monday 30 December 2024. For any enquiries, you can still reach us by email on contact@hnc.org.au, which will be monitored throughout our office closure period.
