HealthPathways update – June 2026

Pictured: Port Macquarie, NSW   HealthPathways offers clinicians locally agreed information to make the right decisions together with patients, at the point of care. The pathways are designed primarily for general practice teams, but are also available to specialists, allied health professionals, and other health professionals in your region. Check out the recently reviewed and

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Information for health professionals on Ebola disease

On 17 May 2026, the Director-General of the World Health Organization determined that the ongoing outbreak of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus (BVD) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005). Although this outbreak currently presents a

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Australian CDC provides update on evolving diphtheria outbreak

Since the diphtheria outbreak began in the Northern Territory (NT), the first suspected death in Australia in nearly a decade has been reported and cases have spread to several states across the country. The Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and Communicable Diseases Network Australia (CDNA) have developed national guidance on diphtheria outbreak management for

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Residential Aged Care Enhanced Primary Care Access Grant recipients announced

Healthy North Coast is pleased to announce the successful recipients of their Residential Aged Care – Enhanced Primary Care Access Grants program. These grants have been awarded following an expression of interest process and panel evaluation. Recognising the unique challenges associated with delivering primary care to residents in aged care homes – particularly in areas

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Help shape future research on asbestos-related diseases

The National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases is inviting people affected by asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases – including people exposed to asbestos, patients, carers, advocates and healthcare professionals – to complete an anonymous survey (10–15 minutes) to help define future research priorities. Take the survey now. The survey closes 31 August 2026. For more

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Improving recognition of mental health needs at end of life

Anxiety, depression, and demoralisation are common for people living with life-limiting illness, yet symptoms can sometimes be overlooked. The updated End-of-Life Essentials Patient Mental Health module explores how to identify when additional support may be needed, and provides practical guidance for compassionate, person-centred care. It also highlights the importance of self-care and supporting colleagues, recognising

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Lead teams with confidence: Clinical skills & telehealth trainer program for aged care nurses 

Residential aged care homes across the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW are invited to express interest in a new ‘train-the-trainer’ program focused on telehealth and clinical decision-making. Developed in partnership between Healthy North Coast and the University Centre for Rural Health, the program supports educators and clinical leaders to build capability within their own

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Regional Aged Care Connect meetings strengthen collaboration across the North Coast

Healthy North Coast’s Healthy Living and Ageing team has launched the first Regional Aged Care Connect meetings, a new forum bringing together residential aged care services and health partners to strengthen local communication and collaboration. Two inaugural meetings were held: One in Port Macquarie, hosted by RSL LifeCare and chaired by HNC’s Jane Moye And

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Weight management in adults: A broader, patient-centred approach

The Weight Management in Adults HealthPathway has been updated to reflect current evidence, national policy, and local service arrangements. This pathway has been localised for our region and developed in conjunction with local endocrinologists, general physicians and allied health clinicians. It places stronger emphasis on the complex biological, psychological, social and environmental determinants of weight.

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New evaluation shows impact of Resilient Kids program

Pictured: Celebrating the one-year anniversary of Resilient Kids in November 2024.   Healthy North Coast has released the evaluation report for the second year of the Resilient Kids program – delivered by Social Futures, The Family Center, Human Nature Therapy and Lives Lived Well – highlighting the positive impact the program is having for children,

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New report highlights impact of post-flood recovery programs in the Northern Rivers

It’s been 4 years since severe flooding caused devastation across the North Coast region, with longer term impacts still being experienced. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) described these floods as one of the most devastating in the nation’s history. Seven LGAs were affected, with towns like Lismore, Broadwater, Coraki and Woodburn experiencing the most

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New palliative care resources now available for your patients & practice

Healthy North Coast has released two new resources – a Palliative Care Fact Sheet and a comprehensive Palliative Care on the North Coast Booklet – to support health professionals in guiding patients and carers through palliative and end-of-life care. Developed by HNC’s Healthy Living & Ageing team, these resources provide clear, localised information to help

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