It’s Doctor Time!

People with intellectual disability are missing out on their yearly health check, also known as an Annual Health Assessment. It’s Doctor Time! is a campaign that aims to change this. It’s Doctor Time! has been developed in response to new data that shows only 7% of people with intellectual disability in Australia are visiting a

Generosity in action: Tweed Valley general practices donate Christmas hampers

Article originally written by Jonathon Howard & published in Tweed Valley Weekly, December 12 & 19 edition:   Maureen Firehock, the CEO of Kennedy Drive, PKG and Bilambil Heights Medical Centres, has once again stepped up this Christmas, with a remarkable gesture of generosity, personally donating 100 Christmas hampers to Fred’s Place, the homeless shelter

Struggling with gambling?

The new Gambling Recovery Group at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre is for people who want to take control of their gambling habits and make lasting changes. SMART Recovery is a proven 4-point program that uses cognitive behavioural techniques to help you: Build & maintain motivation Cope with urges Solve problems Achieve a balanced lifestyle. Their

Get healthy in pregnancy

Looking after your health and wellbeing during pregnancy can help you give your baby the best start to life. The Get Healthy in Pregnancy service offers free phone and online health coaching to support pregnant women to make healthy lifestyle changes during pregnancy. The health coaches are university qualified and provide tailored health advice, support

Woodburn Health opens!

Pictured L-R: Owners of Woodburn Health Amanda Moss, Kelly Towns and Dr Louise Wagner.   Yesterday, we were privileged to attend the official opening of Woodburn Health, marking an important occasion for health care access in the town of Woodburn, NSW. Amanda Moss, Practice Nurse and one of the three owners at the new practice

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