Healthy North Coast Practitioner Newsletter by Healthy North Coast

September 2014 | Edition 4

Healthy North Coast practitioner newsletter North Coast Medicare Localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier communication for General Practice, Aboriginal Medical Services, Aged Care, Pharmacy and Allied Health

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GP Focus

AMS Focus

AgedCare Focus

Pharmacy Focus

AlliedHealth Focus

inside 3. GP Focus 9. AMS Focus 12. Aged Care Focus 16. Pharmacy Focus 20. Allied Health Focus 23. Healthy North Coast News 25. Events 26. Classifieds

GPFocus

PAL UPDATE The Women Want To Know Project The aim of this national campaign is to encourage health professionals to discuss the issue of alcohol use during pregnancy with their female patients. Australian women consider health professionals to be the best source of information about alcohol use during pregnancy, and they trust their advice. For women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, not drinking is the safest option. The NH&MRC’s Australian Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks from Drinking Alcohol specify that maternal consumption of alcohol can harm the developing foetus or breastfeeding baby.

in pregnancy may become more apparent. Intellectual and behavioural characteristics in individuals exposed to alcohol in pregnancy include inattention, impulsiveness, aggression and problems with social interaction. For more information on the project visit: www.alcohol.gov.au

Sexual Health Online Education Programs for GPs and Primary Health Care Nurses THINKGP now has two sexual health online education programs for GPs and primary health care nurses: •

For women who are breastfeeding, not drinking is the safest option. There is no known level of alcohol consumption in pregnancy where no damage to a foetus will occur. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy may result in miscarriage or stillbirth and may adversely affect lactation, infant behaviour and psychomotor development of the breastfed baby. In the child, alcohol exposure in utero can result in Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which include premature birth, brain damage, birth defects, growth restriction, development delay and cognitive, social, emotional and behavioural deficits. As the child grows, the social and behavioural problems associated with alcohol exposure 3

•

STI Contact Tracing for General Practice - discusses the role of GPs in contact tracing for STIs. Opportunities to initiate a discussion with patients are identified, and advice is provided in relation to the STIs for which contact tracing is recommended and the methods to do this. Key features in managing STIs - STI testing tool - looks at how to discuss sexual practice, STI and HIV risk with an aim to increasing STI and HIV testing in practices. A wide range of case studies also examine ways of approaching STI and HIV testing and treatment, and promoting safe sexual practice using the NSW STIPU STI Testing Tool.

Visit http://thinkgp.com.au/stipu for more information.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Training for Primary Care Nurses The Lung Foundation is offering an online COPD course to primary care nurses. Learn about COPD, identifying patients with COPD, managing patients with COPD and developing self-management plans with patients. Upon completion, Practice Nurses receive seven continuing nurse education points from the Royal College of Nursing Australia (RCNA) and eight hours from the Australian Practice Nurse Association (APNA). Visit http://bit.ly/1ste55g for more information.

Tweed Byron Health Services Group adopts Australian Diabetes In Pregnancy (ADIP) Guidelines Tweed Byron Health Services Group have adopted the new ADIP Guidelines for gestational diabetes screening with all antenatal patients having a fasting two hour GCT between 26-28 weeks. More information about the new ADIP Guidelines can be found on the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) website, under the College Statements & Guidelines tab: http://bit.ly/1qlTD7U. Refer to the College Statement C-Obs 7 “Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnancy”.

GPFocus PAL UPDATE Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre

Acute Care Centre, Port Macquarie Base Hospital

skills to manage such emergencies. They also attract generous CPD points.

Diabetes NSW is pleased to announce the opening of the Port Macquarie Resource Centre at 11/35 Merrigal Road Port Macquarie (PO Box 5209).

The Acute Care Centre (ACC), Port Macquarie Base Hospital (PMBH) is now open weekends operating Monday to Sunday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

The Resource Centre’s opening hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted by phone on 02 6581 5420 or fax on 02 6581 5419.

The ACC is located underneath the main entrance to PMBH and is staffed by local GPs including Dr Brenda Rattray and Dr John Fone. The centre is not a general practice but rather a bulk-billed acute service for patients who present directly or come from the Emergency Department. Patients are then referred back to their GP for ongoing management.

Thank you to all the general practice staff who are attending these evenings - we couldn’t hold them without your enthusiasm for learning. Due to the high response rate, it’s anticipated the workshops will be run again in Lismore and Murwillumbah in late 2014 or early 2015.

The Resource Centre offers a wide variety of non-clinical services for members of the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). The registration form can be downloaded here. These services do not require a referral and are not a part of the GP Diabetes Management Plan. The Resource Centre services include: • • • • •

Annual Cycle of Care Health Screening (Free) “Living with Insulin” Workshops (Free) Diabetes Information Sessions (Free) Supermarket Tours ($5 cost) BEAT IT Healthy Lifestyle Program ($5 cost)

Check this flyer or contact the Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre for further information.

Procedures such as Ascetic Taps and Infusions are also undertaken at the ACC and can be booked by phoning 02 5524 2252 or faxing 02 5524 2253. The ACC is looking for interested GPs to participate in the roster. If you are interested, please contact Dr Logan Carroll by phone on 0447 243 493 or email: logan.carroll@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au

Emergency Situation Workshops Coming to Coffs Harbour

North Coast Medicare Local (NCML) has had an overwhelming response from general practice staff wanting to attend its first Emergency Management workshops. These five, three-hour workshops give staff the skills to respond to various medical emergencies in medical clinics – airway, breathing, circulation, cardiovascular and disability.

The brainchild of NCML Chair Dr Tony Lembke, these free workshops, being held initially in Lismore, Murwillumbah and Grafton, offer a set of valuable team-based

The dates for the Coffs Harbour evening workshops at the iSim Centre at Coffs Harbour Base Hospital are October 8, November 5, November 19, December 3 and December 12. A brochure on the Coffs workshops will be sent to general practices shortly; registration will close on September 5. Dates are also being drawn up for Emergency Management Workshops in Port Macquarie. There is also the potential to use the UCRH mobile simulation bus to run courses at Kempsey, depending on the availability of educators. These workshops are the result of a partnership between the University Centre for Rural Health (UCRH), North Coast GP Training and NCML. They are being held in the UCRH’s Simulation Centres. They allow 20 participants to practice emergency skills and work together as a team while undertaking immersive scenarios which replicate emergencies that occur in general practice environments. The curriculum was developed by UCRH and the workshops are delivered by accredited simulation educators Bobbie Youngberry and Sharene Pascoe. Thanks to Drs Richard Deaker, Paul Earner and Anne Drinkwater for reviewing the course outline. Comments for the first workshop included: • • •

“Excellent, gave us the confidence to manage emergency situations.” “Light-hearted but very informative and hands-on.” “Excellent, looking forward to the next one.”

GPFocus PAL UPDATE

CLINICAL TIP

Beating Cardiac Blues

Don’t use antipsychotics as first choice to treat behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.

The Heart Research Centre has recently launched its ‘Cardiac Blues’ resources for patients and health professionals to support emotional recovery after heart attack or heart surgery. This is extremely important as patients with ongoing depression are at risk of another heart attack and premature death. The aim of the resources is to assist patients in two ways: 1. Support them through normal emotional adjustment; and 2. Encourage patients at risk of depression to get help early. Visit the website www.heartresearchcentre.org or email cardiac.blues@heartresearchcentre.org for further information or to order copies of the Cardiac Blues resources.

People with dementia can exhibit aggression, resistance and other disruptive behaviors. Antipsychotic medicines are often prescribed, but they can cause serious harm, including stroke and premature death. Use of these drugs should be limited to cases where non-pharmacologic measures have failed and patients pose an imminent threat to themselves or others. Identifying and addressing the causes of behavior change can make drug treatment unnecessary. choosingwisely.org

NATIONAL PRESCRIBING SERVICE Exploring Inhaled Medicines Use and Asthma Control Around 1 in 10 Australian adults and children, or about 2 million people, have asthma and it is 1.6 times more common among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Many adults and children are not achieving good asthma control, defined as the need to use reliever medicine less than three times a week. Poor asthma control increases the risk of flare-ups requiring oral corticosteroids, hospitalisation or emergency department visits. Poor control has been linked to poor inhaler technique and patients should be educated in correct inhaler technique at every opportunity. It is important not to assume a patient ‘knows’ how to use their inhaler device correctly. NPS MedicineWise (NPS) has produced device-specific checklists to assist with teaching correct Asthma Inhaler Technique. Guidelines recommend that adherence and correct inhaler technique be assessed at every visit and especially before considering any step-up in treatment (including dose adjustments). Having an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan can also help patients manage their symptoms and recognise worsening asthma. A number of templates are available to assist with development of an Asthma Action Plan. NPS has produced a suite of activities 5

to consolidate health professional’s knowledge on asthma, review current guidelines and practices, and earn CPD points through learning activities. Education visits – North Coast Medicare Local, in partnership with NPS, provide ‘Exploring inhaled medicines use and asthma control’ educational visits delivered as a one-to-one or group meeting for GPs and practice nurses. The latest evidence and new Australian guidelines for treating asthma in adults, adolescents and children are also discussed. Please contact your nearest NPS Program Officer for more information or to book a free educational visit: • • • •

Tweed Heads – Jill Hayward jhayward@ncml.org.au Northern Rivers - Sally Herbert sherbert@ncml.org.au Mid North Coast – Michael Driscoll mdriscoll@ncml.org.au Hastings-Macleay – Lesley Burrett lburrett@ncml.org.au

current best practice guidelines and explores the benefits of maintaining a written asthma action plan. It involves completing electronic data for 10 to 20 patients. The Clinical e-Audit: Asthma Management is recognised for the Practice Incentive Program of the Quality Prescribing Incentive. GPs can earn 40 RACGP CPD points or 30 ACRRM PRPD points for completing this activity. It is available free at http://bit.ly/1tLJuC4. Other useful resources available from Asthma Australia include: •

•

Asthma Score or Asthma Control Test – Patients can complete the online Asthma Control Test at http://bit.ly/W4ugvP which consists of five quick questions to check their level of control. They can then print the results and bring to their next appointment Visit http://bit.ly/1qLrd3Q for videos on inhaler technique

GPFocus PREVENTATIVE HEALTH Referral to NSW Health’s ‘Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service’®

With patients’ permission, you will be kept informed of their progress with reports provided by the service at three and six months.

With 1 in 2 Australians now overweight or obese, targeted programs which assist individuals to address their weight are important. Being overweight or obese has many health implications, including increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, gout, some cancers, and more.

What will your patient get from the Get Healthy Service? • • •

What can you do as a General Practitioner (GP) or Health Professional? NSW Health offers the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service® - a free, confidential telephone-based service which assists people in making positive lifestyle changes around healthy eating, physical activity and achieving a healthy weight. Clients can self-refer or be referred by a GP/Health Professional by completing the form here.

www.gethealthynsw.com.au Referring patients comes with multiple benefits, including: • • •

Email or fax the form to:

•

Email: contact@gethealthynsw.com.au Fax: 1300 013 242

• •

Improved outcomes that complement patient care Visible contribution in reducing the health care burden in Australia Healthier community with better chronic disease management Focus on prevention and early intervention Easy access and referral systems in place Effective evidence-based, high-quality primary prevention

•

Have their own personal health coach Receive up to 10 free coaching calls providing support to make changes over six months Receive an information booklet that provides them with information on what they need to do, and a coaching journal to write down their goals and actions Have access to a website where they can download tools to keep track of their goals and help you keep an eye on their progress

GPs and Health Professionals can also earn CPD points by completing the ThinkGP module “Managing a patient’s Lifestyle – Get Healthy Information and Coaching”. The module looks at what the Get Healthy Service is, the role of GPs and Health Professionals in the program, the process of assessing patients for their sign-up suitability, and the patient referral process. Visit the ThinkGP website for more information, or to participate in the module.

IMMUNE RESPONSE NSW Notifiable Disease cases for 2014, as of the end of July • •

• • • • • •

Measles - 60 cases Meningococcal disease – 20 cases (of the cases with a known serotype 12 were serotype B, no known Meningococcal C, cases remaining were unknown) Mumps - 50 cases Rubella - 5 cases Pertussis - 1073 cases Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) - 4 cases Q Fever - 75 cases Pneumococcal - 262 cases

To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/1q6rsds, click on the relevant disease and then click the ‘Data’ tab for more information.

Meningococcal B vaccine was licensed in Australia but not funded by the National Immunisation Program.

Meningococcal alert

Young people who have had the meningococcal C vaccine should still be on the look-out for symptoms as the vaccine only covers the ‘c’ strain.

Winter and early spring is the peak time for meningococcal disease. Sadly, two females recently died of the disease - one an 18-year-old in southern Queensland and another in the New England area. The Meningococcal C vaccine is recommended for all babies at 12 months of age. The vaccine is currently free in NSW and provided for unvaccinated people up to 25 years of age. Recently a

A NSW Health Meningococcal Disease poster with information about signs and symptoms is available here: http://bit.ly/VOoeza

GPFocus IMMUNE RESPONSE Influenza is on the Rise Australia is experiencing double the number of flu cases compared to the same time last year. Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu has been the most commonly detected strain. Many of those who are seriously affected are not elderly, but are the regular working group. The death of a fit and healthy Christchurch woman from influenza is a stark reminder of just how deadly the flu can be. Natalie Cadenhead, 47, died earlier this month after weeks struggling with a lung infection and other symptoms of influenza.

New to HealthPathways – July and August 2014 • • • • • •

Enuresis in Children Abnormal Liver Function Tests Tetanus Prone Wound Management Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Pertussis Vaccine for Pregnant Women Anaemia in Adults

Service Page Of The Month A service page was developed in response to patients being incorrectly referred to Pregnancy Care Services at Coffs Harbour. Service pages are in development for other Pregnancy Care Services across the North Coast.

Coffs Harbour Pregnancy Care Service The Pregnancy Care Service is based at Coffs Harbour Health Campus and services patients from within the Coffs area. The service includes: •

The Ante Natal Clinic which delivers assessment, management and education to all obstetric patients

Visit http://bit.ly/VRxG4x to read more about her story. Visit http://www.isg.org.au/ for more information about influenza.

Measles alerts

New Zealand is also experiencing an increase of measles. To date this year, 265 confirmed measles cases have been reported from the Auckland region, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Hawkes Bay, Taranaki, and Wellington, with over 100 cases during a recent outbreak among high school students in Hamilton.

Measles alerts were issued in Sydney and Perth last week following cases of the highly contagious disease. Western Australia has recorded a 10-year high of 33 cases this year, with half aged 20-49 years and nine admitted to hospital.

•

The Early Pregnancy Assessment Service which is a dedicated outpatient service to assess, diagnose and manage women with threatened or actual early pregnancy loss, less than 20 weeks pregnant The Post Natal Clinic which delivers post natal care to all patients that have experienced a complicated delivery

The Antenatal Clinic, Post Natal Clinic and Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS) referral information including phone number, fax number, investigations required, criteria, triage categories, wait times, location and clinic hours can be accessed through HealthPathways at: http://manc.healthpathways.org.au Username: manchealth Password: conn3ct3d The HealthPathways team are looking at developing an electronic referral form to replace the current PDF document to improve ease of use and efficiency. NB: Pathways that have been localised have only been localised for the Mid North Coast area at this stage. Northern NSW Local Health District has recently joined the program and pathways that have already

been localised will retrospectively have contact information added for the Northern NSW region. Contact Program Coordinator Tracy Baker on 02 6583 3600 or send an email to tbaker@ncml.org.au for further information or to suggest future topics.

GPFocus eHEALTH

Human Services’ Healthcare Professionals Online Services (HPOS) HPOS provides secure and convenient online services for health professionals and administrators to streamline interactions with the Department of Human Services. By reducing the need to call and helping to avoid rejected claims, HPOS helps to make your practice more efficient. A Department of Human Services Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificate is needed to access HPOS. PKI certificates let practices encrypt and digitally sign electronic transmissions. There are different PKI certificates to suit different users: •

For health professionals, a PKI individual certificate provides access

•

to the full range of HPOS services based on provider type For administrators, a PKI individual certificate allows access to basic HPOS services. However, health professionals can delegate access to administrators to undertake some tasks on their behalf For practice staff, a PKI site certificate provides access to patient verification and basic mail centre functions

Services available include: • • • • • • • •

Healthcare Identifiers (HI) Service eHealth Record System MBS Items Online Checker Patient Verification Medicare Services Incentive programs Statements and reports Mail Centre

• • •

Centrelink forms Department of Veterans’ Affairs Coordinated Veterans’ Care Program

Find out more information about the following services: • • • •

HPOS: http://bit.ly/1p9cUEG PKI certificates: http://bit.ly/1tLHny4 Healthcare Identifiers (HI) Service: http://bit.ly/VOiKo0 eHealth: www.eHealth.gov.au

Alternatively, contact the Department of Human Services eBusiness Service Centre on 1800 700 199 or email onlineclaiming@humanservices.gov.au for more information on registering to do business online.

MENTAL HEALTH A spotlight on child mental health Prevalence rates for mental disorders across the childhood period are cause for significant concern. Studies suggest this is also an important window for early intervention. A 2007-2008 Australian survey identified that the most common mental health problems in children (0-14 years) managed by GPs were behavioural symptoms/ complaints (27%), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD (18%), sleep disturbance (14%) and depression/ anxiety (13%). The average age of onset for many common mental disorders appears to be during childhood and adolescence, with many disorders diagnosed in adulthood having their origins in childhood. Examples include attachment disorders, ADHD, conduct disorders and some types of anxiety disorders (such as phobias and separation anxiety). The earlier the age that mental disorders develop, the greater the likelihood of increased severity of impairment and multiple diagnoses later in life.

While the number of children referred to a mental health practitioner through the Better Access program is increasing, only one quarter of children in Australia experiencing mental health difficulties seek assistance from a health service. The early intervention of mental disorders in childhood is critically important, both to improve childrens’ mental health and to help prevent the onset of mental disorders in adolescence and adult life. Left untreated, 50% of children with mental disorders will experience longterm sequelae including school dropout, depression, substance abuse and employment difficulty. There is a strong and expanding evidence-base for the benefits of early intervention approaches. For this reason, one of the target groups for Healthy Minds is children aged 0-12 years. Healthy Minds provides mental health services to vulnerable people. To be eligible, the parents of these children must have a Health Care Card or be suffering severe financial distress. The service enables GPs, Psychiatrists and Paediatricians to refer people with mental health concerns to a Healthy

Minds mental health practitioner. Mental health practitioners include psychologists, mental health social workers, mental health nurses, occupational therapists and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers. Healthy Minds practitioners have agreed not to charge a gap fee so there is no cost for a patient to receive Healthy Minds services. In order to access the Healthy Minds for Children Service, infants and children do not need to have a diagnosed mental or childhood behavioural or emotional disorder. However, there needs to be clinical evidence that they are at significant risk of developing a disorder. Healthy Minds is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, using both Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) and Better Access funding. The service is managed locally by the North Coast NSW Medicare Local. For more information about Healthy Minds, including Healthy Minds for Children, contact the team on 1300 137 237.

AMSFocus PAL UPDATE Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Quality Improvement Project Following successful CKD workshops held as part of a Quality Improvement project between North Coast NSW Medicare Local and the Improvement Foundation, Jullums Lismore Aboriginal Medical Service (previously known as Gurgun Bulahnggelah Aboriginal Health) is now conducting regular bi-monthly renal clinics to increase clinician and patient education and awareness. These renal clinics assist in screening potential CKD patients, as well as monitoring and supporting patients with appropriate education and for the establishment of management care plans to prevent deterioration and avoid renal dialysis. Contact Christine Wilson, Practice Manager, Jullums Lismore Aboriginal Medical Service on 02 6621 4366 for more information.

‘Background Artwork’ by Alison Williams

Closing the Gap: Register your interest in attending a Cultural Awareness session The Closing the Gap (CTG) program is aimed at reducing the gap in life expectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-indigenous Australians. North Coast NSW Medicare Local (NCML) employs Aboriginal Health Program Officers, Care Coordination and Supplementary Service (CCSS ) Care Coordinators and CTG outreach workers from Tweed Heads to Port Macquarie. Aboriginal Health Program Officers work with primary health care providers, community service providers and Aboriginal communities to improve access to mainstream primary health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. One effective way we do this is by facilitating RACGP accredited cultural awareness sessions for GPs and allied health staff. CCSS Care Coordinators are available to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, chronic kidney disease and/or cancer to help manage their health and gain access to services. Aboriginal Health Program Officers will be organising cultural awareness sessions for GPs, practice staff and allied health staff over the next few months. If you would like to register your interest in one of the upcoming cultural awareness sessions or have a friendly CTG or CCSS worker visit your practice and speak to you and your staff about the programs, please contact the Aboriginal Health Program Officer in your area: Tweed Heads - Susan Parker-Pavlovic, phone (07)5523 5517 or email sparker-pavlovic@ncml.org.au Lismore - Harry Beckers, phone (02) 6622 4453 or email hbeckers@ncml.org.au Coffs Harbour - Helen Lambert, phone (02) 6659 1800 or email hlambert@ncml.org.au Port Macquarie - Annie Orenshaw, phone (02) 6583 3600 or email aorenshaw@ncml.org.au Kempsey - Annie Orenshaw, phone (02) 6562 1055 or email aorenshaw@ncml.org.au

Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre Diabetes NSW is pleased to announce the opening of the Port Macquarie Resource Centre at 11/35 Merrigal Road Port Macquarie (PO Box 5209). The Resource Centre’s opening hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted by phone on 02 6581 5420 or fax on 02 6581 5419. 9

The Resource Centre services include: • • • • •

Annual Cycle of Care Health Screening (Free) “Living with Insulin” Workshops (Free) Diabetes Information Sessions (Free) Supermarket Tours ($5 cost) BEAT IT Healthy Lifestyle Program ($5 cost)

Check this flyer or contact the Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre for further information.

AMSFocus

‘Background Artwork’ by Alison Williams

PAL UPDATE

Beating Cardiac Blues The Heart Research Centre has recently launched its ‘Cardiac Blues’ resources for patients and health professionals to support emotional recovery after heart attack or heart surgery. This is extremely important as patients with ongoing depression are at risk of another heart attack and premature death. The aim of the resources is to assist patients in two ways: 1. Support them through normal emotional adjustment; and 2. Encourage patients at risk of depression to get help early. Visit the website www.heartresearchcentre.org or email cardiac.blues@heartresearchcentre.org for further information or to order copies of the Cardiac Blues resources.

ABORIGINAL HEALTH Integrated Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Strategic Plan An Integrated Northern NSW Local Health District Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Wellbeing Strategic Plan is currently being developed. The aim of the plan is to define priorities and future directions, and describe the actions required by the Health Service in development and delivery of health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the North Coast over the next five years. Other relevant agencies such as Aboriginal Medical Services, North Coast NSW Medicare Local, other Non-Government Organisations plus a range of government agencies such as Family and Community Services, Housing, Education and Police are involved in the planning process.

‘Sprocket for your Pocket’ Launch in Hastings Macleay The North Coast NSW Medicare Local Closing the Gap Team recently launched its new ‘Sprocket for your Pocket’ pamphlet in the Hastings Macleay area. The pamphlet contains details on services that are available in hospitals and the community, and key service contact details specific to the Hasting Macleay region. It will be distributed to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in Kempsey and Port Macquarie hospitals, people released from prison and anyone in the community that would like one. The pamphlet was also distributed at the recent Children’s Day at the Birpai Local Land Council. The pamphlet can be viewed here. Thank you to the Chronic Care Team for collaborating on this valuable project.

The NNSW LHD Integrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Wellbeing Strategic Plan will develop some key strategies supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing. Some of which will be undertaken in partnership with these agencies. A Steering Committee is overseeing the plan’s development and includes Ngayundi Aboriginal Health Council Executive and Northern NSW Aboriginal Partnership representation. 10

Left-Right: Lois Sallustio -AHLO PMQ Base Hospital, Judy Hancock- Aboriginal Community Options Manager, Booroogen Djugun, Annie Orenshaw- IHPO Medicare Local PMQ/Kempsey, Loretta Smith- Aboriginal Chronic Care Worker, Kempsey District Hospital, Deb Cushing - CCSS Coordinator, PMQ Medicare Local, Sue Thompson - CNS 48 hour Follow up Connecting Care, Susan Minns Connecting Care Chronic Disease Program.

AMSFocus ABORIGINAL HEALTH

‘Background Artwork’ by Alison Williams

Quit For Life Quit For New Life is an initiative of the Ministry of Health in partnership with Kids and Families NSW. The primary target for this program is pregnant and postnatal Aboriginal women and women who identify as having an Aboriginal baby (antenatal). In addition to this, the program is extended to household members of pregnant and postnatal women who smoke. The program aims to help women to quit smoking during pregnancy and to stay quit after the birth of their baby. The program offers the client ongoing quit support as well as 12 weeks of free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). Patients can access the program by calling 1300 662 263 or contact their local QFNL clinician: Hastings/Macleay - Kristine Horn, 02 6588 2956 Macksville/Coffs - Lynette Vella, 02 6656 7938

IMMUNE RESPONSE NSW Notifiable Disease cases for 2014, as of the end of July • •

• • • • • •

To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/1q6rsds, click on the relevant disease and then click the ‘Data’ tab for more information.

Meningococcal alert Winter and early spring is the peak time for meningococcal disease. Sadly, two females recently died of the disease - one an 18-year-old in southern Queensland and another in the New England area. The Meningococcal C vaccine is recommended for all babies at 12 months of age. The vaccine is currently free in NSW and provided for unvaccinated people up to 25 years of age. Recently a Meningococcal B vaccine was licensed in Australia but not funded by the National Immunisation Program. 11

Young people who have had the meningococcal C vaccine should still be on the look-out for symptoms as the vaccine only covers the ‘c’ strain. A NSW Health Meningococcal Disease poster with information about signs and symptoms is available here: http://bit.ly/VOoeza

Influenza is on the Rise Australia is experiencing double the number of flu cases compared to the same time last year. Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu has been the most commonly detected strain. Many of those who are seriously affected are not elderly, but are the regular working group. The death of a fit and healthy Christchurch woman from influenza is a stark reminder of just how deadly the flu can be. Natalie Cadenhead, 47, died earlier this month after weeks struggling with a lung infection and other symptoms of influenza. Visit http://bit.ly/VRxG4x to read more about her story. Visit http://www.isg.org.au/ for more information about influenza.

Measles alerts Measles alerts were issued in Sydney and Perth last week following cases of the highly contagious disease. Western Australia has recorded a 10-year high of 33 cases this year, with half aged 20-49 years and nine admitted to hospital. New Zealand is also experiencing an increase of measles. To date this year, 265 confirmed measles cases have been reported from the Auckland region, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Hawkes Bay, Taranaki, and Wellington, with over 100 cases during a recent outbreak among high school students in Hamilton.

AgedCareFocus

PAL UPDATE ISBAR Roll-out

North Coast NSW Medicare Local (NCML) will start rolling out its ISBAR program in September 2014 as a key component of its Quality Improvement Partnership Package (QIPP), in which the majority of Residential Aged Care Facilities in the NCML footprint are participating. What is ISBAR? ISBAR is an acronym that stands for:

Contact Diana Anderson in the Northern NSW region by emailing: danderson@ncml.org.au or Kate Hillenbrand in the Mid North Coast region by emailing: khillenbrand@ncml.org.au for further information and to discuss participation.

Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre

Decision Assist: Advance Care Planning Telephone Service Now Available

The Resource Centre’s opening hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted by phone on 02 6581 5420 or fax on 02 6581 5419.

Decision Assist, a project funded by the Australian Government, provides specialist Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning advisory services for Aged Care. Telephone advice on Advance Care Planning is available on 1300 668 908 from 8am until 8pm, seven days a week. The Palliative Care side of the telephone advice service is expected to be operational in September 2014 and available 24/7. Visit www.decisionassist.org.au to find out more or register your interest to attend Aged Care workshops.

How does ISBAR improve quality? ISBAR provides a clinical handover communication framework for the exchange of information between people in a consistent and reliable way. Evidence shows that when a standardised approach is implemented, the effectiveness of that approach increases. ISBAR has a wideranging application in health care settings, including aged care. The initial workshops will provide practical applications for ISBAR which provides Quality Improvement initiatives and supports accreditation. Participation In the Northern NSW region, NCML has partnered with TAFE Kingscliff to deliver ‘ISBAR as a Communication Tool’ workshops. Workshops will be delivered at Kingscliff, Ballina, Lismore, Casino and Grafton. A Project Officer will connect with RACFs in the Coffs Harbour and Kempsey areas. Facilities participating in QIPP will be contacted shortly. 12

Are you receiving Department of Social Services’ Aged Care Communications? Following the 2013 Election, the new government transferred the Ageing component from the then Department of Health and Ageing to the Department of Social Services (DSS), Ageing and Aged Care Stream. The DSS regularly communicates with aged care stakeholders via email or mailfax. These communications advise of important government announcements that affect the aged care sector. If these communications are not being received, you may need to update your contact details. To update contact details: • •

Send address, phone, fax, email and Approved Provider name details to Key.Personnel@health.gov.au; and Send address, phone, fax, email and Peak Body name details to DBSUBSCRIBE@health.gov.au

Diabetes NSW is pleased to announce the opening of the Port Macquarie Resource Centre at 11/35 Merrigal Road Port Macquarie (PO Box 5209).

Annual Cycle of Care Health Screening (Free) “Living with Insulin” Workshops (Free) Diabetes Information Sessions (Free) Supermarket Tours ($5 cost) BEAT IT Healthy Lifestyle Program ($5 cost)

Check this flyer or contact the Resource Centre for further information.

Beating Cardiac Blues The Heart Research Centre has recently launched its ‘Cardiac Blues’ resources for patients and health professionals to support emotional recovery after heart attack or heart surgery. This is extremely important as patients with ongoing depression are at risk of another heart attack and premature death. The aim of the resources is to assist patients in two ways: 1. Support them through normal emotional adjustment; and 2. Encourage patients at risk of depression to get help early. Visit www.heartresearchcentre.org for more information, or email cardiac.blues@heartresearchcentre.org to order Cardiac Blues resources.

AgedCareFocus PAL UPDATE Aged Care Entry Record (ACER) New arrangements for income testing in home care and means testing in residential care took effect on 1 July 2014. One change is that providers are now required to lodge an Aged Care Entry Record (ACER) when consumers commence a home care package or enter residential care. For all new clients entering residential aged care an ACER is required to be completed within 28 days. The ACER form can be downloaded from the Aged Care Entry Record at: http://bit.ly/1qIDZDX

Free eHealth Resources by iCareHealth iCareHealth has developed free resources to help aged care providers overcome challenges preparing for the roll-out of eHealth. These include: • • •

Register your organisation for eHealth in 5 steps (for multi-site facilities) http://bit.ly/1wLBXYk Register your organisation for eHealth in 3 steps (for single-site facilities) http://bit.ly/1tQXw5f A sample PCEHR Security and Access Policy for residential aged care http://bit.ly/1qacaEw

The completed ACER form can be submitted via the Aged Care Online Claiming website or emailed or mailed to Department of Human Services (DHS). Visit www.humanservices.gov.au or phone 1800 195 206 for further information.

IMMUNE RESPONSE NSW Notifiable Disease cases for 2014, as of the end of July • •

• • • • • •

To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/1q6rsds, click on the relevant disease and then click the ‘Data’ tab for more information.

Australia but not funded by the National Immunisation Program. Young people who have had the meningococcal C vaccine should still be on the look-out for symptoms as the vaccine only covers the ‘c’ strain. A NSW Health Meningococcal Disease poster with information about signs and symptoms is available here: http://bit.ly/VOoeza

AgedCareFocus IMMUNE RESPONSE Influenza is on the Rise Australia is experiencing double the number of flu cases compared to the same time last year. Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu has been the most commonly detected strain. Many of those who are seriously affected are not elderly, but are the regular working group. The death of a fit and healthy Christchurch woman from influenza is a stark reminder of just how deadly the flu can be. Natalie Cadenhead, 47, died earlier this month after weeks struggling with a lung infection and other symptoms of influenza. Visit http://bit.ly/VRxG4x to read more about her story. Visit http://www.isg.org.au/ for more information about influenza.

some key strategies supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing. Some of which will be undertaken in partnership with these agencies. A Steering Committee is overseeing the planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development and includes Ngayundi Aboriginal Health Council Executive and Northern NSW Aboriginal Partnership representation.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Quality Improvement Project Following successful CKD workshops held as part of a Quality Improvement project between North Coast NSW Medicare Local and the Improvement Foundation, Jullums Lismore Aboriginal Medical Service (previously known as Gurgun Bulahnggelah Aboriginal Health) is now conducting regular bi-monthly renal clinics to increase clinician and patient education and awareness. These renal clinics assist in screening potential CKD patients, as well as monitoring and supporting patients with appropriate education and for the establishment of management care plans to prevent deterioration and avoid renal dialysis. Contact Christine Wilson, Practice Manager, Jullums Lismore Aboriginal Medical Service on 02 6621 4366 for more information.

AgedCareFocus MENTAL HEALTH

NewAccess - information for services that support ageing people and their families “It is thought that between 10 and 15 per cent of older people experience depression and approximately 10 per cent experience anxiety. Rates of depression among people living in residential aged-care facilities are believed to be much higher, at around 35 per cent. “Unfortunately, many people over 65 still seem to feel there is a stigma attached to depression and mental health conditions, viewing them as a weakness of character rather than a health problem. “Older people are also more hesitant to share their experiences of depression with others, often ignoring symptoms over long periods of time and only seeking professional help when things reach crisis point. “The thing is, depression and anxiety are common. They affect 3 million Australians every year. There’s no need for older people to feel they have to live with depression or anxiety. They are not a weakness of character – but common conditions for which help is available. Effective treatments exist for older people and the good news is, with the right treatment for depression and anxiety, most people recover.” (Extract from the beyondblue website. Retrieved from: http://bit.ly/1tgr4vf) What is NewAccess? NewAccess is a low intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) program for people experiencing mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. NewAccess provides six sessions of low intensity CBT with a trained Access Coach focusing on strategies for managing depression, anxiety, low mood and life stress. 15

How does NewAccess work? On referral, clients are offered an assessment session either in person or by phone. If a client is suitable for the program, a plan is developed in consultation with the client, for a guided series of Low Intensity CBT sessions. The client is also supplied with materials about the program and information about depression/ anxiety as part of the psychological education component of the program. What is the referral process to NewAccess? Clients can self-refer by phone on 1300 137 934 or online at beyondblue.org.au/NewAccessCoach. Clients can also be referred by their medical practitioner, mental health worker or other community agency. What is the criteria for clients? NewAccess is an early intervention program for people over 18 years who are experiencing emotional stress and who are not currently accessing other mental health services. How is the program funded? NewAccess is a beyondblue program, funded by The Movember Foundation and beyondblue. Visit beyondblue.org.au/NewAccessCoach or phone 1300 137 934 for more information.

PharmacyFocus PAL UPDATE ePSI September 2014 marks the second review period for the ePSI. All pharmacies eligible for PPI Community Services Support are again encouraged to scan available barcoded prescriptions to reach or exceed the 30% scan rate target for the review period. All pharmacies eligible for PPI Community Services Support are able to participate in the second review period for ePSI. If your pharmacy was unable to meet the requirements for the March 2014 review period, your pharmacy can still participate and receive the $1,200 payment if your pharmacy is eligible and meets or exceeds the 30% scan rate target across September. Visit http://bit.ly/1po2l7r for more information.

2014 Telstra Australian Business StartUp Award Winner: Country Wellness Pharmacy, Winnellie, Northern Territory In 2014, Country Wellness Pharmacy established Save Mart Pharmacy in the Winnellie Shopping Centre with a desire to provide innovative healthcare services. The owners merged traditional medication dispensing with health services such as 16

counselling and education seminars, online medical consultations, and a web-based medication management system for an aged care facility. Judges said the business demonstrated a new pharmacy business model that was about health and wellness, not simply retailing pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Visit http://bit.ly/1pf7Vab for more information.

Nominations Open – Quality Care Pharmacy Program Pharmacy of the Year 2015 Each year winners are selected for three categories: excellence in business management, excellence in community engagement and innovation in professional services. The overall Pharmacy of the Year winner is selected from these category winners demonstrating success across all three areas. Visit http://bit.ly/1lVY9VK for more information.

eHEALTH UPDATE Australian Medicines Terminology The Australian Medicines Terminology (AMT) is a set of specifications developed by the National E-Health Transition Authority (NEHTA) that standardise the identification, naming and describing of medicine information. The AMT aims to reduce errors due to standardised terminology structure and improve the exchange of decision information and decision support. AMT is released monthly to include new items from the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods as well as items listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Visit http://bit.ly/1sN9Di2 for a fact sheet.

eHealth Video Tutorials for FRED Dispense The following video tutorials are now available: • • •

Viewing and uploading Prescription and Dispense Records – visit http://bit.ly/1zPck5a Upload/Remove a Dispense Record in the PCEHR with Fred Dispense – visit http://bit.ly/1tR9TOO Viewing an eHealth record in Fred Dispense – visit http://bit.ly/1qMZVtM

PharmacyFocus IMMUNE RESPONSE NSW Notifiable Disease cases for 2014, as of the end of July • •

• • • • • •

To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/1q6rsds, click on the relevant disease and then click the ‘Data’ tab for more information.

PharmacyFocus PAL UPDATE Nominations Open - Innovative Pharmacist of the Year award

Individuals or a team are recognised for innovations for industry, the profession or the community. Entries close on 3 October 2014. Visit http://bit.ly/1uj5IL3 for more information.

National standardised PBS hospital medication chart in development The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care is developing a national standardised medication chart for inpatient and outpatient use in public and private hospitals. The chart aims to improve the safety of medication management in hospitals through standardised medication charting and management practice. Visit http://bit.ly/1pi4mvi for more information.

Acute Care Centre, Port Macquarie Base Hospital

Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre

The Acute Care Centre (ACC), Port Macquarie Base Hospital (PMBH) is now open weekends operating Monday to Sunday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Diabetes NSW is pleased to announce the opening of the Port Macquarie Resource Centre at 11/35 Merrigal Road Port Macquarie (PO Box 5209).

The Resource Centre’s opening hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted by phone on 02 6581 5420 or fax on 02 6581 5419.

Annual Cycle of Care Health Screening (Free) “Living with Insulin” Workshops (Free) Diabetes Information Sessions (Free) Supermarket Tours ($5 cost) BEAT IT Healthy Lifestyle Program ($5 cost)

Check this flyer or contact the Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre for further information.

ABORIGINAL HEALTH Guide to providing pharmacy services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has released a guide to providing pharmacy services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Guide is designed to assist pharmacists to deliver a consistently high-quality service to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, to communicate effectively and to be culturally responsive. It includes an overview of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific medicine programmes and a resource list from which pharmacists can gather more in-depth information. The Guide replaces the PSA Guidelines for provision of pharmacy services to Aboriginal and Islander health services (2005) and PSA An introduction to cultural orientation for participating pharmacists (2008). Visit http://bit.ly/1sTUZFL for more information.

PharmacyFocus NATIONAL PRESCRIBING SERVICE Exploring Inhaled Medicines Use and Asthma Control Around 1 in 10 Australian adults and children, or about 2 million people, have asthma and it is 1.6 times more common among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Many adults and children are not achieving good asthma control, defined as the need to use reliever medicine less than three times a week. Poor asthma control increases the risk of flare-ups requiring oral corticosteroids, hospitalisation or emergency department visits. Poor control has been linked to poor inhaler technique and patients should be educated in correct inhaler technique at every opportunity. It is important not to assume a patient ‘knows’ how to use their inhaler device correctly. NPS MedicineWise (NPS) has produced device-specific checklists to assist with teaching correct Asthma Inhaler Technique. Guidelines recommend that adherence and correct inhaler technique be assessed at every visit and especially before considering any step-up in treatment (including dose adjustments). Having an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan can also help patients manage their symptoms and recognise worsening asthma. A number of templates are available to assist with development of an Asthma Action Plan. NPS has produced a suite of activities to consolidate health professional’s knowledge on asthma, review current guidelines and practices, and earn CPD points through learning activities.

Education visits – North Coast Medicare Local, in partnership with NPS, provide ‘Exploring inhaled medicines use and asthma control’ educational visits delivered as a one-to-one or group meeting for GPs and practice nurses. The latest evidence and new Australian guidelines for treating asthma in adults, adolescents and children are also discussed. Please contact your nearest NPS Program Officer for more information or to book a free educational visit: • • • •

Interactive online case study ‘Optimising asthma control in children’ is available at http://bit.ly/1tdhV6L and is eligible for CPD points for GPs, pharmacists and nurses. Clinical e-Audit: Asthma Management – This online audit allows GPs to determine management based on regular review of asthma control. It also allows review of current prescribing practice for patients with certain conditions, compared with current best practice guidelines and explores the benefits of maintaining a written asthma action plan. It involves completing electronic data for 10 to 20 patients. The Clinical e-Audit: Asthma Management is recognised for the Practice Incentive Program of the Quality Prescribing Incentive. GPs can earn 40 RACGP CPD points or 30 ACRRM PRPD points for completing this activity. It is available free at http://bit.ly/1tLJuC4.

Other useful asthma resources available from Asthma Australia include: •

•

AlliedHealthFocus

MENTAL HEALTH

PAL UPDATE

The Women Want To Know Project The aim of this national Australian Government campaign is to encourage health professionals to discuss the issue of alcohol use during pregnancy with their female patients.

Diabetes NSW is pleased to announce the opening of the Port Macquarie Resource Centre at 11/35 Merrigal Road Port Macquarie (PO Box 5209).

Australian women consider health professionals to be the best source of information about alcohol use during pregnancy and trust their advice.

The Resource Centre’s opening hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted by phone on 02 6581 5420 or fax on 02 6581 5419.

For women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, not drinking is the safest option.

The NH&MRC’s Australian Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks from Drinking Alcohol specify that maternal consumption of alcohol can harm the developing foetus or breastfeeding baby. For women who are breastfeeding, not drinking is the safest option. No studies have definitely established a safe level of alcohol consumption and there is no known level of alcohol consumption in pregnancy where no damage to a foetus will occur. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy may result in miscarriage or stillbirth and may adversely affect lactation, infant behaviour and psychomotor development of the breastfed baby. In the child, alcohol exposure in utero can result in Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which include premature birth, brain damage, birth defects, growth restriction, development delay and cognitive, social, emotional and behavioural deficits. As the child grows, the social and behavioural problems associated with alcohol exposure in pregnancy may become more apparent. Intellectual and behavioural characteristics in individuals exposed to alcohol in pregnancy include inattention, impulsiveness, aggression and problems with social interaction. For more information on the project, go to: www.alcohol.gov.au 20

Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre

Mental Health Practitioners: How many sessions should I deliver in a day? The number of sessions a mental health practitioner delivers in a day is an important consideration. It has an impact on the quality of the sessions that clients receive, as well as the self-care of the practitioner. Determining the optimal (and maximum) number of sessions per day can be complex. It depends on: • • •

How experienced the mental health professional is The type and complexity of the clients seen Whether the sessions are assessments or counselling Use of sufficient breaks

The Resource Centre services include:

•

The two key professional bodies - The Australian Psychological Society (APS) and The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) - offer consistent guidance on the maximum number of clients that should be seen in a day.

• • • •

Annual Cycle of Care Health Screening (Free) “Living with Insulin” Workshops (Free) Diabetes Information Sessions (Free) Supermarket Tours ($5 cost) BEAT IT Healthy Lifestyle Program ($5 cost)

Check this flyer or contact the Diabetes NSW Port Macquarie Resource Centre for further information.

In a typical 8-hour day, delivering 1-hour counselling sessions, it is recommended that no more than six sessions be delivered. This would include completing the case notes on the same day. The AASW recommends that if the counselling sessions require significant preparation, administration, reporting and follow-up, then only five sessions a day should be scheduled. Likewise, a maximum of five sessions per day is recommended if the practitioner is providing counselling and casework for more complex cases. Visit http://bit.ly/1sTVAar for more information on the APS’ Professional Practice Management Standard.

AlliedHealthFocus PAL UPDATE

IMMUNE RESPONSE

Beating Cardiac Blues The Heart Research Centre has recently launched its ‘Cardiac Blues’ resources for patients and health professionals to support emotional recovery after heart attack or heart surgery. This is extremely important as patients with ongoing depression are at risk of another heart attack and premature death. The aim of the resources is to assist patients in two ways: 1. Support them through normal emotional adjustment; and 2. Encourage patients at risk of depression to get help early. Visit www.heartresearchcentre.org for further information, or email cardiac.blues@heartresearchcentre.org to order copies of the Cardiac Blues resources.

NSW Notifiable Disease cases for 2014, as of the end of July • •

• • • • • •

To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/1q6rsds, click on the relevant disease and then click the ‘Data’ tab for more information.

Meningococcal alert

Australia is experiencing double the number of flu cases compared to the same time last year. Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu has been the most commonly detected strain. Many of those who are seriously affected are not elderly, but are the regular working group. The death of a fit and healthy Christchurch woman from influenza is a stark reminder of just how deadly the flu can be. Natalie Cadenhead, 47, died earlier this month after weeks struggling with a lung infection and other symptoms of influenza. Visit http://bit.ly/VRxG4x to read more about her story. Visit http://www.isg.org.au/ for more information about influenza.

Winter and early spring is the peak time for meningococcal disease. Sadly, two females recently died of the disease - one an 18-year-old in southern Queensland and another in the New England area.

Measles alerts

The Meningococcal C vaccine is recommended for all babies at 12 months of age. The vaccine is currently free in NSW and provided for unvaccinated people up to 25 years of age. Recently a Meningococcal B vaccine was licensed in Australia but not funded by the National Immunisation Program.

Western Australia has recorded a 10-year high of 33 cases this year, with half aged 20-49 years and nine admitted to hospital.

Influenza is on the Rise

Measles alerts were issued in Sydney and Perth last week following cases of the highly contagious disease.

AlliedHealthFocus

ABORIGINAL HEALTH Quit For Life

Quit For New Life is an initiative of the Ministry of Health in partnership with Kids and Families NSW. The primary target for this program is pregnant and postnatal Aboriginal women and women who identify as having an Aboriginal baby (antenatal). In addition to this, the program is extended to household members of pregnant and postnatal women who smoke. The program aims to help women to quit smoking during pregnancy and to stay quit after the birth of their baby. The program offers the client ongoing quit support as well as 12 weeks of free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). Patients can access the program by calling 1300 662 263. For more information on the program, you can contact your local QFNL clinician: Hastings/Macleay Kristine Horn, 02 6588 2956 Macksville/Coffs Lynette Vella, 02 6656 7938

Integrated Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Strategic Plan

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Quality Improvement Project

An Integrated Northern NSW Local Health District Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Wellbeing Strategic Plan is currently being developed. The aim of the plan is to define priorities and future directions, and describe the actions required by the Health Service in development and delivery of health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the North Coast over the next five years. Other relevant agencies such as Aboriginal Medical Services, North Coast NSW Medicare Local, other Non-Government Organisations plus a range of government agencies such as Family and Community Services, Housing, Education and Police are involved in the planning process.

Following successful CKD workshops held as part of a Quality Improvement project between North Coast NSW Medicare Local and the Improvement Foundation, Jullums Lismore Aboriginal Medical Service (previously known as Gurgun Bulahnggelah Aboriginal Health) is now conducting regular bi-monthly renal clinics to increase clinician and patient education and awareness.

Contact Christine Wilson, Practice Manager, Jullums Lismore Aboriginal Medical Service on 02 6621 4366 for more information.

A Steering Committee is overseeing the planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development and includes Ngayundi Aboriginal Health Council Executive and Northern NSW Aboriginal Partnership representation.

These renal clinics assist in screening potential CKD patients, as well as monitoring and supporting patients with appropriate education and for the establishment of management care plans to prevent deterioration and avoid renal dialysis.

HNCNews Networking Platform for Health Professionals

ealthy North Coast’s new online network allows you to communicate, network and collaborate in a private and professional environment, with colleagues from across the North Coast without leaving your office. The Healthy North Coast Network is based on the functionality of other familiar social networking platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. With over 130 regional and professionbased networks available, the Healthy North Coast Network is ready for you to join right now. Health professionals can register for the Healthy North Coast Network by visiting http://bit.ly/VsrO2s with full instructions for the platform at http://bit.ly/1sJgRI7

Higher mortality rates for males, people in remote areas and Indigenous Australians A new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that when it comes to longevity, Australians are not equal, with higher death rates among males, Indigenous Australians and people living in remote areas. The report, Mortality inequalities in Australia: 2009-2011, shows that there are significant inequalities when it comes to dying early or from potentially avoidable causes. ‘Our report shows many factors affect death rates, with particular population groups more disadvantaged than others,’ said AIHW spokesperson Louise York. ‘We also found that the Australians who had the worst death rates tended to experience deaths from causes that, in many cases, can be considered to be preventable or treatable. These are often referred to as potentially avoidable deaths.’ The report shows that the death rate for males is 1.5 times as high as the rate for

females. If males had the same death rate as females, there would have been 71,400 fewer male deaths over the 200911 period. The death rate among Indigenous Australians was nearly twice that of nonIndigenous Australians. This was even more pronounced among Indigenous people aged 35-44 years, with a death rate five times as high as their nonIndigenous counterparts: 480 deaths per 100,000 Indigenous people aged 35-44 compared with 98 deaths per 100,000 non-Indigenous people aged 35-44. People living in remote and very remote areas had death rates 1.4 times as high as those for people living in major cities, and higher rates of death due to diabetes (3 times as high) and land transport accidents (4.7 times as high). Follow the link for the complete article: http://bit.ly/1vosaWF

HNCNews Why bad food is good for business Many people eat badly because far too much of their energy is provided by nutritionally worthless junk foods and drinks. Part of the problem is the push by the food industry to get us to buy food that may be bad for us but good for its business. In the 1960s, we had between 600 and 800 foods to choose from, many of them only available at the right season. But that was before supermarkets became widespread. Now, the typical supermarket stocks about 30,000 items with whole aisles devoted to sweetened drinks, confectionery, savoury snack foods, biscuits, cakes and pastries, sugary breakfast cereals and substitute bars, and drinks full of added sugar. Any one of these foods may contribute only a small percentage of total kilojoules, but there are so many of them that to-

OCD? Not Me! Young people with ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder (OCD) now have access to online treatment to assist them to overcome the anxiety disorder. Curtin University researchers have designed the program ‘OCD? Not Me!’ for young people aged 12-18. Dr Rebecca Anderson, from Curtin’s School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, said people with OCD become preoccupied with negative thoughts and behaviors that can control their lives. “People with OCD may have rituals or strong compulsions to do certain things repeatedly, in order to banish the daunting thoughts.” Follow the link for the complete article: http://bit.ly/1zI17Do

gether they contribute 35% of adults’ kilojoules (41% for children), as well as 41% of saturated fat (47% for children) and 47% of consumed sugar (54% for children). Of course, we must take responsibility for what we choose, but when sugary, salty, fatty items dominate what is offered in supermarkets, school and work canteens, sporting venues, service stations, motel dining rooms, clubs and even hospitals, they become the easy choices. The food industry also uses advertising and promotions to “normalise” the consumption of highly-processed foods and drinks, and its lobbying power to resist regulation.

This powerful lobby group is representative of just 120 food companies out of more than 2,000, but well over 80% of the dollar value of food sold in Australia. The majority of its members are large companies manufacturing highly-processed foods and drinks. No one quibbles with the fact that companies are in business to make a profit. But sadly the profitability of many food companies comes from a type of “value adding” that could more accurately be dubbed “value padding”. Follow the link for the complete article: http://bit.ly/1qiScGv

The Australian food, drink and manufacturing industry is worth A$111 billion with the big end of town represented by the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC).

Dental Health Week The Australian Dental Association (ADA) wants all parents and children to ask each other: “Who is the Sugar Bandit in our family?” August 4-10 is Dental Health Week (DHW), the ADA’s major annual oral health promotion and education campaign. DHW 2014 is focused on babies and toddlers’ oral health, with a particular focus on how the ‘Sugar Bandit’ hides in Australian households. Chair of the Oral Health Committee, Dr Peter Alldritt said: “It’s common for parents and extended family to offer children a ‘treat’ to reward good behaviour or simply in response to children’s ‘pester power’. Using food to reward, bribe or to comfort children sends an inappropriate message about food from an early age and undermines other efforts to build healthy eating habits. Children who consume high sugary foods and drinks on a regular basis are at greater risk of dental decay as well as obesity and diabetes.

Family and friends can literally spoil your kids rotten if sugary treats are given every time they spend time with your kids. Parents need to understand the risks and put some boundaries around access to treats. When rewards are given, parents should ask, is there a better option? Every time we eat, our teeth are exposed to an acid attack. The bacteria in our mouths (plaque) ferment the food to make acid, and if teeth are exposed to this acid long enough cavities develop – this is known as tooth decay. Consumption of sugary foods and drinks on a regular basis is the number one cause of tooth decay. Dr Alldritt continued: “Parents do not have to take the fun out of rewarding their kids altogether; there are plenty of other ways that don’t include food.” Follow the link for the complete article: http://bit.ly/1qObMJt

HNCEvents

September - December 2014 You can view the full North Coast Practitioner events calander at: www.healthynorthcoast.org.au/practitioner-events

Hastings-Macleay Events

Northern Rivers Events

8-12/9/2014 - AHPT Practical Pathology Workshop, Kempsey

5/9/2014 - Defusing Explosive Situations Workshop, Southern Cross University, Lismore

9/9/2014 - Oral Health ‘Lift The Lip’ Workshop For Practice Nurses, Camden Haven Community Health, Laurieton 10/9/2014 - Macleay Palliative Local Advisory Panel, Kempsey RSL Club 16/9/2014 - Caring for People in Residential Aged Care, Rydges, Port Macquarie

9/9/2014 - Workshop: Breathing Emergencies in General Practice - UCRH, Lismore 9/9/2014 - Accidental Counsellor Extension, Crowley Village, Ballina 10/9/2014 - Primary Care Asthma Update, Byron Bay

17/9/2014 - Chronic Kidney Disease: Issues for General Practitioners, Kempsey RSL Club

10/9/2014 - Working with Men Who Use Violence Invercauld House, Lismore

1/10/2014 - Kempsey QI Kaizen Workshop: CTG Scripts, Kempsey RSL Club

12-14/9/2014 - Connecting Minds Conference, Byron at Byron Resort and Spa, Byron Bay

8/10/2014 - Kempsey GP Specialist Speed Dating, Netherby House, Kempsey

18/9/2014 - LGBTI Ageing Forum, Crowley Village, Ballina

14/10/2014 - Asthma Management Kempsey for GPs, Pharmacists and Practice Nurses - Kempsey RSL Club 21/10/2014 - Oral Health ‘Lift The Lip’ Workshop For Practice Nurses, Wauchope Community Health Centre 11/11/2014 - Wound Care for Practice Nurses and Aged Care Nurses, Kempsey RSL Club

Mid North Coast Events 3/9/2014 - HIV Testing: What are Your Risks? RACGP Event, Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour 4/9/2014 - Twilight Update: Adolescent healthcare asking the awkward questions – Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour 11/10/2014 - HealthPathways Ante Natal Shared Care Education Event, Coffs Harbour Health Campus 16/9/2014 - Free Dementia Information Day, City Square, Coffs Harbour 18-19/10/2014 - Anaesthesia 2014, Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour

Tweed Events 5/9/2014 - Integrative Breathing - Fundamentals of Assessing and Treating Dysfunctional Breathing – Southern Cross University, Gold Coast campus 24/10/2014 - Lower Limb Anatomy Workshop, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast 25

29-30/9/2014 - Trauma and Attachment: Responding to Children and Families, YWCA, Goonellabah

Online Events 4/9/2014 - Banking in PracSoft 9/9/2014 - Twilight Online - Adolescent Healthcare Confidentiality and Independence 30/9/2014 - Twilight Online - Identifying Unlikely Patients 14/10/2014 - Twilight Online - Asking Awkward Questions

Other Events 12-14/9/2014 - Pharmacy Business Network Conference, Crown Conference and Events Centre, Melbourne 10-12/10/2014 - Pharmacy Australia Congress, National Convention Centre, Canberra 16-18/10/2014 - Pharmacy Assistant Conference, QT Gold Coast 17-18/10/2014 - Chronic Disease Management Workshop, Hotel Pullman, Melbourne 7-8/11/2014 - Chronic Disease Management Workshop, Mercure Brisbane 5-6/12/2014 - Chronic Disease Management Workshop, Swissotel Sydney

HNCclassifieds LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL/RICHMOND NETWORK SURGICAL SERVICES - INNOVATION IN PRACTICE Lismore Base Hospital (LBH)/Richmond Network Surgical Services are currently undertaking a project to streamline the short stay surgical patient journey. The project includes the pre-operative, peri-operative and post-operative care phases of a patient’s admission. The aim of the project is to facilitate collaboration and ensure general practice teams, inpatient teams and other primary health providers are working in a more integrated, seamless and coordinated manner. This will involve enhanced patient management protocols including criteria led discharge and greater communication links with primary care. The project will start with patients who are fit and well with few comorbidities with an expected length of stay less than 48 hours. It is anticipated the new agreed arrangements would be used by LBH, St Vincents, Casino and Ballina hospitals. Guidelines for the negotiated roles of hospital and general practice will be available through the HealthPathways website.

Pathways are currently being developed to standardise: • • •

•

preadmission assessment clinical management plans – Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Hernia Repair criteria led discharge for same day discharge involving a competent JMO and RN authorising discharge based upon agreed criteria set by the interdisciplinary team outpatient follow up

There are currently two working parties: • •

Focus Medical Centre is a near-new fully equipped-practice with excellent nursing and administration support. We are an accredited practice and

With generous support from the Naphtali Family Foundation, Baker IDI is offering the opportunity to submit for an accommodation grant to attend the upcoming ‘Cardiovascular Disease & Diabetes: A Whole of Life Approach’ Educational Symposium, in Alice Springs, 23-24 October 2014. Applications are now open and close Monday 15 September 2014. 10 grants will be awarded. To apply for a grant visit: http://bit.ly/1tEgwE9 For more information please contact the Symposium Coordinator on 1300 728 900.

Pre-admission Clinical Management/Criteria Led Discharge

Project team: Lead: Austin Curtin; Daniel Bills Project Officer: Helen Mitchell Executive Sponsor: Lynne Weir The project steering committee would like to hear from GPs and other stakeholders about their concerns and recommendations for improving elective surgery care. The project is seeking GPs to join the working parties. Should you wish to contribute or seek for further information, email: helen. mitchell@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au or lynne.weir@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au

GENERAL PRACTITIONER – PORT MACQUARIE Focus Medical Centre is a modern and sunny GP-owned practice in Port Macquarie. We are seeking a friendly motivated VR GPs to join our harmonious team in either a full-time or part-time capacity.

ACCOMODATION GRANTS FOR CVD & DIABETES CONFERENCE

GENERAL PRACTITIONER COFFS HARBOUR Are you interested in rewarding work in a supportive environment that is also well remunerated? When you join Healthscope Medical Centres you’ll see why developing mutually beneficial relationships with doctors is our speciality. Key Benefits for Practitioners: • • • •

Flexible work arrangements are supported (and encouraged) Attractive financial terms Clinical Autonomy Highest standard support services for clinical care Efficient and effective administrative support

are fully computerised and noncorporate. We are located near the town centre and our consultation rooms have wonderful natural light and views to the ocean.

Park Beach Family Practice - Coffs Harbour www.parkbeachfamilypractice.com.au

Sorry, no DWS positions available.

Rob Mooney, State Manager NSW & ACT Ph: 0419 424 477 Email: rob.mooney@healthscope.com.au

For enquiries contact Dr Anne Murray on 6584 6715 or email: info@focusmedicalcom.au

Immediate start available. Private/mixed billing practice.

HNCclassifieds PRACTICE NURSE SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY HEALTH CLINIC Experienced practice nurse required to work as part of a team dedicated to delivering high-quality health care at Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast Health Clinic. The primary purpose of this position is to enhance the quality delivery of health care by providing nursing services to assist the medical profession in delivery of acute and preventative nursing. The successful applicant is required to ensure a smooth, efficient and professional functioning medical practice, whilst providing a quality service to our students, staff and clients.

Requirements: • • • • • •

3 years post registration experience, preferably in general practice. Experience in conducting health assessments, chronic disease management and care planning. Duties include: ECG, spirometry, wound care, assisting with minor procedures and patient education. Experience in Best Practice software desirable. Immunisation certificate desirable. Days and hours negotiable up to 35 hours per week.

For enquiries contact Susan Dodds on 02 66269131 or email: susan.dodds@scu.edu.au

COUNSELLING ROOM REQUIRED BALLINA A counselling room is required in the Ballina area for one day a week (preferably Wednesdays, but this is negotiable). I am an Accredited Social Worker (eligible for Medicare Provider Number) and would like to set up practice in conjunction with an existing medical or counselling practice. I have worked in health services for many years, and my skills include working with people who have chronic health conditions like chronic pain, stress, depression, grief and other difficulties. Please contact 0427 913 599 or email mindfulness4health@gmail.com

URGENTLY SEEKING MEDICAL PRACTITIONER LISMORE

Calling all GPs & Allied Health Professionals who have an interest in the health of young people: headspace Port Macquarie would love to hear from you. Contact Jenny Sinclair on 02 6588 7300 or jsinclair@each.com.au for an informal discussion.

Lismore Family Planning Service offers specialist reproductive and sexual health services and has been operating since 1979. We offer bulk billed specialist reproductive and sexual health services and are looking for a Medical Practitioner to join our clinic. In addition to the Thursday and Saturday clinics at Lismore, there is an option to work at our Kyogle Outreach clinic on every second Friday.

This position offers casual hours in Lismore/Kyogle and above award conditions.

You should be registered as a Medical Practitioner with the NSW Medical Board with current authority and provider number for NSW, and hold the SH&FPA certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health.

Hours: Thursdays 3-6.30pm Saturdays 9am-1pm

For further information or an information package, please contact Julie Vines 02 66201870 or applications@nrsdc.org.au Applications close at 9am on Monday September 22nd.

HNCclassifieds INVITATION TO PARTICIPARE IN STUDY This invitation is for Psychologists, Social Workers, Clinicians and Case Managers working in the trauma field to participate in a trauma and growth study. Participation in this study is voluntary and the completed surveys are entirely anonymous and confidential (with exception of Sharon Black and her supervisor at CSU who is conducting the study, your name remains completely confidential). If you are willing to become involved in this research please follow the link below. It will take you to a detailed information sheet and a questionnaire set. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/QHXQP5H If you have any questions please contact Sharon Black via email at scblack@bigpond.com or her CSU supervisor Dr Gene Hodgins on 02 6933 2746 or ghodgins@csu.edu.au.

GP REQUIRED FOR CLINIC - KEMPSEY Exciting opportunity to join a friendly and modern rural medical practice. Work Full-time, Part time or more flexible hours available. Situated in a rural country-town setting, yet enjoy close access to some of the most beautiful North Coast Beaches. Existing patient data-base with occupation health opportunities, supported by a group of experienced and dedicated doctors. A fully computerised practice with full nursing and administrative support plus Allied health on-site or within the same complex. Applicants must have basic medical training and competency in all areas of general practice. Contact Kempsey GP Clinic (02) 6583 83 83 Level 1, 35 Belgrave Street, Kempsey NSW.

Would you like to post a local classified ad in this newsletter? If so, email the details to healthynorthcoast@gmail.com before the 25th of each month. There is no cost associated with these ads.

Contact NCML Head Office Suite 6, 85 Tamar Street, BALLINA NSW AUSTRALIA 2478 Postal: PO BOX 957, BALLINA NSW AUSTRALIA 2478 Phone: 02 6618 5400 Fax: 02 6618 5499 Email: enquiries@ncml.org.au

Northern Rivers Tarmons House, St Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Campus 20 Dalley Street, East Lismore NSW 2480 Phone: 02 6622 4453 Fax: 02 6622 3185 Email: nr@ncml.org.au

Hastings Macleay Office Location: Postal Address 53 Lord Street, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 Phone: 02 6583 3600 Fax: 02 6583 8600 Email: hm@ncml.org.au

Tweed Heads 8 Corporation Circuit, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 Phone: 07 5523 5501 Email: tv@ncml.org.au

Mid North Coast Suite 6, 1 Duke Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 Postal: PO Box 920, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 Phone: 02 6659 1800 Fax: 02 6659 1899 Email: mnc@ncml.org.au