Northern NSW residents are set to benefit from a free new service that aims to improve access to local healthcare.
North Coast Health Connect, launched 11 May for 29 postcodes across Northern NSW, offers a free 1800 phone number or live web chat for residents to speak with a registered nurse any time of the day or night, including public holidays.
Funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN program and delivered by Amplar Health, the service ensures urgent health concerns can be assessed quickly and confidentially by a trusted health professional. If needed, residents can be connected with a local general practice, community pharmacist or a virtual care appointment.
Healthy North Coast’s Chief Executive Monika Wheeler said the service opens a new front door to local health care, including urgent care, for those unsure about the next step, helping to ease pressure on hospital resources.
‘Having launched to Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Coffs Harbour residents over the past five months, the service has already supported thousands of locals to receive health advice quickly wherever they are and in a way that suits them,’ said Ms Wheeler.
Above: Attending the North Coast Health Connect Northern NSW launch were (L-R) Adam Webster, Pharmacy Owner, TerryWhite Chemmart Alstonville; Chris Braithwaite, Project Lead, Pharmaceutical Society of Australia; Nicola Ivory, Partnerships Lead, Amplar Health; Monika Wheeler, Chief Executive, Healthy North Coast; and Dr Jay Chetty, GP with Doctors at Ballina Fair.
