Healthy North Coast Practitioner Newsletter by Healthy North Coast

December 2015| Final Edition

Healthy North Coast practitioner newsletter

GP Focus

AMS Focus

AgedCare Focus

Pharmacy Focus

Allied Health Focus

Note: North Coast Primary Health Network has received some valuable feedback regarding our Practitioner Newsletter. Many thanks to the readers who filled in our evaluation survey on 2/11/15. We’re taking your feedback on board with the aim of improving our communications to health care professionals. A new web-based version of the newsletter will launch in early 2016, so keep an eye on your inboxes. Current subscribers of the newsletter should automatically receive the new one. You can add yourself to our subscription list by visiting http://ow.ly/VmmtE.

inside 3. GP Focus 10. AMS Focus 11. Aged Care Focus 12. Pharmacy Focus 13. Allied Health Focus 15. News 17. Events 18. Classifieds

Would you like a hard copy of this newsletter? If so, please email your name and postal address to healthynorthcoast@gmail.com and write “Copy of Healthy North Coast Practitioner Newsletter” in the subject line. 2

GPFocus PAL UPDATE Have your say - 2016 NCPHN Needs Assessment One of the first tasks of Primary Health Networks (PHNs) is to complete a population-based Needs Assessment. This process will build upon local health data already available and is a vital step in creating a picture of health. The needs assessment will identify areas of need for potential future projects and services within the six key PHN priority areas of mental health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, population health, health workforce, eHealth and aged care. The high level needs identified in these areas will then be reviewed through a consultative process to determine which are subjected to deeper exploration and the development of strategies. We need to hear from you, as the validation of available health data and identification of key issues through community and clinician consultation is crucial in this process. North Coast Primary Health Network (NCPHN) is committed to a process that is consultative, inclusive and thoughtful. Interviews, focus groups and surveys will be conducted in January and February 2016. If you are interested in having your say, please send your name, role and contact details to wearelistening@ncphn.org.au by 5pm on Friday 18 December 2015.

Overhaul of mental health services The Federal Government has announced a major overhaul of mental health services, abandoning the current “one-size-fits-all” approach. The reform follows a review by the National Mental Health Commission into the effectiveness of existing services. “We are setting out a blueprint for reform that puts the individual at the centre of our mental health system,” said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Federal Health Minister Sussan Ley said that services needed to move away from Canberra and instead be designed at a local level for the different communities that need services.

“What we are moving to is regional commissioning, informed by the needs of the consumers in those regions - service delivery that matches what you receive as a consumer with what you need according to that level of need,” Ms Ley said. Commissioning will be the task of PHNs. Ms Ley said the new approach would better support Australians to receive the most appropriate mental health care when and where they need it. The changes will see: • • •

care packages created for people with complex needs a new digital gateway to online mental health services a new single telephone hotline to direct people to appropriate services

For the full Turnball government response to the National Mental Health Commission’s Review of Mental Health Programme and Services, go to http://ow.ly/ViSvX.

NCPHN Welcomes Federal Government Changes to the Mental Health Sector NCPHN has welcomed the Federal Government’s changes to the mental health sector. The move will see PHNs take a lead role in ensuring a wellintegrated mental health system, commissioning all regionallydelivered Commonwealth-funded primary mental health services by 2018. These changes will allow NCPHN to improve linkages to best meet the individual needs of consumers across our region, building upon work already begun with Local Health Districts (LHDs) and other service providers. Amongst the changes is the creation of a $350 million a year flexible funding pool that will allow PHNs to improve efficiency and effectiveness of Mental Health services across the country. The process will also provide an opportunity for the community to have a say in planning mental health services in their region.

GPFocus PAL UPDATE Meet NCPHN’s GP advisers

Australian General Practice Training

North Coast Primary Health Network (NCPHN) has employed five GPs across its footprint one day a week to advise on a range of topics and to facilitate GP engagement. These doctors will also assist NCPHN’s new Clinical Councils and provide advice on clinical governance and professional development matters.

From 1 January 2016, GP Synergy will be the new provider of the GP Training program currently delivered by North Coast GP Training. NCGPT will remain responsible for GP Training in the region for the remainder of 2015. North Coast Primary Health Network wishes the outgoing staff of NCGPT all the best for the future and much success to GP Synergy, registrars and training practices in 2016.

Dr Dan Ewald, lead Clinical Advisor Dan works in general practice at Lennox Head and at Bullinah Aboriginal Health Service in Ballina. He is an Adjunct Associate Professor, Sydney University at the University Centre for Rural Health. Email: dewald@ncphn.org.au Dr Marion Tait, Lismore/Ballina Marion works as a GP at Casino AMS. Email: mtait@ncphn.org.au

Dragon Claw uniting Rheumatoid Disease patients The new Dragon Claw website provides resources and information to rheumatoid disease, lupus and juvenile arthritis patients and carers, with a focus on how to deal with anxiety and depression. The site, which has been designed by people living with these conditions, offers health and wellbeing services such as medications, diet, exercise, carer support and a place to share stories. Information videos presented by health professionals, online video chats, information on latest research and links to useful phone apps are also available. Registration is free. Visit www.dragon-claw.org to access the resources.

Dr Paul Davies, Tweed Heads Paul works in Tweed Heads at the GP clinic at Fred’s Place homeless support service, Bugalwena General Practice and headspace. Email: pdavies@ncphn.org.au Dr Gull Herzberg, Coffs Harbour Gull lives and works as a GP in Bellingen. He was the initial headspace GP in Bellingen and is now on the team at Bellingen’s Youth Hub Clinic. Email: gherzberg@ncphn.org.au Dr Brett Lynam, Tweed Heads Brett works in a busy general practice in Tweed Heads and is dealing with the challenges of NSW/QLD border practice. Email: blynam@ncphn.org.au

Bowel cancer screening Bowel cancer is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer, claiming the life of one Australian every two hours. If bowel cancer is detected before it has spread beyond the bowel, the chance of surviving for at least five years after diagnosis is about 90%. The Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA) guidelines recommend screening asymptomatic patients using a sensitive Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) every one to two years if they are 50 or over. Many patients don’t screen for bowel cancer because they are put off by the ‘clean plastic container’ required to collect the stool sample. The ColoVantage Screening service offers GPs and patients a clean, simple to use FIT screening test involving: • •

toilet water sampling, collected with a brush. No faecal handling is required. heat stable test cards. Refrigeration of samples at home is not required. Samples are mailed to the lab in a reply paid envelope.

Rebates are available from Medicare and selected Health Funds. Clinical Genomics, an Australian approved pathology provider, can supply your clinic with promotional materials and kits (pathology fees apply once the patient completes the test), as well as patient compliance data and a yearly reminder service to patients. For more information, please contact Lyndall Iron, Clinical Genomics Territory Manager NSW & ACT on 0427 826 760 or lyndall.iron@clinicalgenomics.com.

GPFocus PAL UPDATE GP related data - NHPA update

Diabetes NSW Clinical Consults

The National Health Performance Authority (NHPA) has released a report on GP and specialist attendances and expenditure in 2013-14. This health care data includes the average number of GP and specialists attendances across Primary Health Network (PHN) areas and associated costs. Here is a summary snapshot of local health use in North Coast NSW:

Diabetes NSW is now conducting one-on-one clinical consults out of their Port Macquarie Shop located at:

GP attendance and cost

GPs can refer their patients (with or at risk of diabetes) to see any or all of the following health professionals:

• • • •

3rd highest rating among PHNs for patients seeing a GP when need presented highest GP attendance rates - 86% of North Coast adults saw a GP in 2013/14 highest GP visits – each NC adult visited a GP 6.3 times (suggests link with chronic disease and aging) 9th highest bulk-billed GP attendances with 85.9% bulkbilled

After Hours and Cost • • • • •

8th lowest After Hours attendance rates – 0.19% 5th Highest Expenditure on After Hours attendance $316.28 per adult 7th lowest MBS expenditure on After Hours - $11 per NC adult Emergency visit patterns 7th highest with 18% of adults visiting ED

Hospital admissions •

1 in 7 adults (14%) admitted to hospital in 2013/14

Specialist attendance • •

10th highest attendance rates (38%) 8th highest expenditure with $82.72 spent on Medicare benefits per adult

Vaccination •

Low vax rate with 63% of girls under 15 having all three HPV vaccinations

Visit www.myhealthycommunities.gov.au for more details on North Coast NSW and performance around Australia.

11/35 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie Phone: 02 6581 5420 Fax: 02 6581 5419

• • •

Credentialled Diabetes Educator - Sue Leahy Accredited Exercise Physiologist - Erin Freeman Accredited Practising Dietitian - Cally Sumpter

Schedule of Fees Enhanced Primary Care Program (Individual Allied Health Services under Medicare) Initial Consultation following Medicare Rebate (45-60 mins) Follow-Up Consultation following Medicare Rebate (20-30 mins)

Diabetes NSW Member*

Non-Member

Bulk Billed

$42

Bulk Billed

$12.00

*Anyone can become a member of Diabetes NSW for $55 Full Membership or $30 Concession. Private Consultations (Private Health Insurance Rebates may be available)

Diabetes NSW Member*

Non-Member

Initial Consultation (45-60 mins)

$85.50

$95.00

Follow-Up Consultation (20-30 mins)

$58.50

$65.00

*Anyone can become a member of Diabetes NSW for $55 Full Membership or $30 Concession.

GPFocus PAL UPDATE MBS update

Paediatric weight management program - Go4Fun

The 1 December 2015 Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) files are now available to download as a complete MBS updated document or by category. Information is also provided via MBS online regarding new, deleted and amended item numbers.

Go4Fun® is an interactive program that helps kids and their families adopt a positive, long-lasting attitude towards food and exercise. The program has been specifically designed for children aged 7-13 years who are above a healthy weight, and their parents. The program consists of 10x weekly 2-hour sessions and includes:

Visit http://ow.ly/ViANl for details.

Palliative Care Last-Days-of-Life Home Support Services Silver Chain provides Palliative Care Last-Days-of-Life Home Support Services where medical governance may remain with the GP. The service works with the Local Health District specialist palliative care and generalist services to deliver seamless care, communication at all levels and to achieve the optimum result for the patients and their carers during the end stage of life. Silver Chain works in partnership with Local Health Districts by wrapping around existing services to provide Last-Days-ofLife Home Support packages. The service is fully funded by the NSW Ministry of Health and is now available in Northern NSW (between Tweed Heads and Evans Head and west to Kyogle and Casino regions), Mid North Coast (between Red Rock and Macksville, including west to Bellingen region) and in the Hastings Macleay region. Each package of care is for a seven-day period and is available to: • • • •

clients in deteriorating or terminal phase, who wish to die at home or remain home as long as possible clients with any diagnosis clients of all ages clients may have more than one package of care

Silver Chain packages of care consist of: • • •

•

Daytime (0800 to 1530 hrs) - an Assistant in Nursing specialising in end-of-life care provides daily support to clients with personal hygiene needs and/or respite for carers Evening (1530 to 2300 hrs) - a Registered Nurse specialising in end-of-life care visits each evening to provide clinical care and support Overnight (2300 to 0830 hrs) - a Registered Nurse specialising in end of life care (who has access to the client’s clinical information) is on call to provide clinical advice and support. Silver Chain additionally provides a tablet in the client’s home so that support can be provided via telephone or video at any time

The Silver Chain Clinical Nurse Consultant Manager can be contacted 24/7 for more information: 1300 758 566.

• • • •

weekly games and activities for children fun, interactive discussions to teach parents easy and effective ways to improve their child’s nutrition, physical activity and self-esteem practical demonstrations, games and tips about healthy foods, label reading and portion sizes the chance to try delicious and healthy new foods

General practitioners and practice nurses can provide parents with the following registration options: • • •

Call 1800 280 900 SMS 0409 745 645 for a call back Register online at www.go4fun.com.au HealthPathway available, Weight Management in Children: http://ow.ly/VymSv Username: manchealth Password: conn3ct3d

1800RESPECT toolkits Frontline workers are often the first person a woman will talk to if they are experiencing sexual assault, domestic or family violence. It’s vital you feel that you are equipped with the right tools and information to help you recognise the signs, offer knowledgebased support and connect women to the most appropriate services. 1800RESPECT has launched a toolkit to assist you with this – visit http://ow.ly/ViDFn and register to access.

HealthPathway available, Domestic and Family Violence: http://ow.ly/VymZp Username: manchealth Password: conn3ct3d

GPFocus PAL UPDATE

IMMUNE RESPONSE

Free exercise program for people with diabetes

New flu protections following high season

Diabetes NSW run a group exercise program for people with diabetes called BEAT IT. This program is funded under the NDSS for NDSS registrants and will not cost your patient anything.

Due to the record number of reported flu cases in 2015, Federal Minister for Health Susan Ley has announced the inclusion of the quadrivalent influenza vaccine on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) in 2016. The new influenza vaccine for 2016 will cover four flu strains (up from three in 2015) recommended by the World Health Organisation for the Southern Hemisphere.

The BEAT IT programs involves: • • • •

One-on-one assessment Twice weekly group exercise sessions for 8 weeks Final assessment Final report provided to GP

The program aims to help people to become more active to assist with better diabetes management. It includes a combination of aerobic, resistance and balance exercises. The program progresses gradually over eight weeks to allow for adaptation and will help your patient to become confident in exercising independently following program completion. They will also be taught about how exercise impacts blood glucose management and about preventing hypos with exercise. There is an option of an ongoing maintenance exercise program for those who need additional support, however the maintenance program is not funded under the NDSS. New programs start quarterly and they are taking referrals for the January-March 2016 programs now. Spaces are limited - if your patient misses out on this program, they will be put on a waiting list for the next program starting in April 2016. To refer your patient simply call 02 6581 5420 or fax 02 6581 5419 stating that you would like to refer a patient to the BEAT IT exercise program. Provide your patient’s name and contact information - Diabetes NSW will do the rest!

No Jab, No Pay - New Immunisation Requirements for Family Assistance Payments

The vaccine will be free for vulnerable Australians, including people aged over 65, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people younger than 5 and older than 15, pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions. Australians not eligible for vaccinations under the NIP will still be able to access seasonal flu vaccinations through their GP, employer or other allied health professionals. Further information on the availability of the new flu vaccine under the NIP will be available closer to the start of next year’s flu season.

NSW School Vaccination Program 2016 Students in high school in 2016 will be offered the following vaccines: Year 7 • • •

Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (dTpa): 1 dose in Term 1 Varicella (chicken pox): 1 dose in Term 2 Human Papillomavirus (HPV): 3 doses in Term 1, 2 and 3/4 (1 dose per term)

Year 8 Students who commenced HPV vaccination in Year 7 at school and missed any dose will be recalled while in Year 8 only. Additionally:

The Federal Government’s ‘No Jab, No Pay’ measure commences on 1 January 2016. Only parents of children (less than 20 years) who are fully immunised, or are on a recognised immunisation catch-up schedule, or have an approved medical exemption, can receive family assistance payments. Conscientious objection and vaccination objection on non-medical grounds will no longer be a valid exemption from immunisation requirements.

•

The Department of Health has commissioned the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) to develop five new fact sheets to help frame discussions about immunisation with parents, providing evidence-based answers to commonly held concerns and myths surrounding immunisation.

•

Visit http://ow.ly/VmhbJ to access the fact sheets.

•

The free vaccine is only available to students who have a signed consent form and who commenced the vaccine course while in Year 7 or Year 11-12. Students who miss vaccine doses due to absence on the day of the nurses’ visit will be offered catch-up vaccination at subsequent school clinics. Where this is not possible, parents will be advised that free catch-up vaccination is available at their local GP during the school year only. Parents who choose to wait for their child to be older before consenting to vaccination will be required to pay for the vaccines privately. Parents can withdraw consent at any time before vaccination takes place by providing the school with written notification or telephoning the school to withdraw their consent. Information about the vaccinations is also available in 23 community languages at http://ow.ly/ViM5i.

Contact your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 for more

GPFocus MENTAL HEALTH Christmas is coming - how much is too much? During the Christmas and New Year period there is a marked increase in festivities, parties, family gatherings, work functions and barbeques. While it’s a great time of year, it can also be a time of excess, especially when it comes to alcohol. The festive season is a good time to reflect on the effects of alcohol on physical and mental health. Excessive alcohol consumption is a cause of a wide range of health - and other - harms. It is the major cause of road and other accidents, domestic and public violence, crime, liver disease and brain damage, and contributes to family breakdown and broader social dysfunction.

If you have a patient whose alcohol consumption is a concern, a referral to an allied mental health professional may be appropriate. Free services are available for people with a mental health treatment plan who are on a Health Care Card or in severe financial stress via Healthy Minds. Healthy Minds aims to provide the best quality psychological support for a range of common, mild to moderately severe emotional and behavioural difficulties including substance misuse, depression and anxiety. An easy to use Healthy Minds referral form for your practice software is available from the North Coast NSW Primary Health Network website at http://ncphn.org.au/healthy-minds. For more information about Healthy Minds, please contact Intake Officer Manpreet Kooner on 1300 137 237.

To stay at low risk for harm, the following drinking limits are currently recommended: • • • •

For healthy men and women, drinking no more than two standard drinks on any day reduces the lifetime risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury For healthy men and women, drinking no more than four standard drinks on a single occasion reduces the risk of alcohol-related injury arising from that occasion For children and young people under 18 years-of-age, not drinking alcohol is the safest option For women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, not drinking is the safest option

There is a range of strategies people can use to minimise alcoholrelated harm: • • • • • • • • • • •

plan some alcohol-free days – grab a juice, mineral water or iced tea instead check the label on the drink container for standard drink information (or pour your own drink) and keep count of the number of standard drinks eat before, and while, drinking alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks plan activities that don’t involve alcohol set goals for cutting down the amount of alcohol consumed drink plenty of water to stay hydrated avoid combining alcohol with energy drinks drink slowly try drinks with lower alcohol content identify a designated driver at the beginning of a night out

Mental Health Rights Manual The Mental Health Coordinating Council has released the Mental Health Rights Manual: An online guide to the legal and human rights of people navigating the mental health and human service systems in NSW (4th Edition) 2015. The manual incorporates the latest legislative reform and describes the mental health and human services environment. Visit http://mhrm.mhcc.org.au/home/ to access the manual.

GPFocus NEW TO HEALTHPATHWAYS – NOVEMBER 2015 • • • • • • • • • • •

Sexual Health Services Genital Herpes Gonorrhoea Syphilis Contact Tracing Chlamydia in Adults Interpreter Services Sexual Health Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Useful websites Child, Adolescent and Family Counselling

HEALTHPATHWAYS OF THE MONTH Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) General practice is the main provider of sexual health care in NSW. Forty-five percent of Australians diagnosed with an STI or blood borne virus receive treatment through general practice. The sexual health HealthPathways have been developed in conjunction with NSW STI Programs Unit (STIPU) with the aim to increase the amount of sexual history taking and targeted STI testing conducted within NSW general practices and support general practitioners to manage sexually transmissible infections within their practice. Specifically by: • •

improving access to STI information, training and resources. strengthening links to publicly-funded sexual health services.

These Pathways cover treatment and management strategies with the latest evidence based information and decision support tools to support clinical best practice. Sexual Health Clinics Specialist public sexual health services have an essential and historical role in improving access to high-priority groups and managing more clinical problems. As well as a clinical role, many specialist services are also responsible for providing continuing professional development, clinical advice and support, population

health advice, contact tracing and research. The Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts run Sexual Health Clinics that provide services for designated priority populations in screening, testing, and management of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI). Patients can either self-refer or be referred via a health professional. All contact information, service information and referral criteria can be found on the HealthPathways website. •

Clinic locations: Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Kempsey, Lismore, Port Macquarie and Tweed Heads with outreach centres also at Byron Bay and Murwillumbah.

GREAT NEWS FROM THE HEALTPATHWAYS HOME PAGE! There is no longer a need to bookmark your favourite websites. A ‘Useful Website’ link is now included on each HealthPathways page. This provides links to commonly-used websites relevant to general practitioners. More sites will be added as new Pathways are developed. If you would like to recommend any websites for inclusion, let us know via the Send Feedback button. Visit the Mid and North Coast HealthPathways website: http://manc.healthpathways.org.au Username: manchealth Password: conn3ct3d For further information or to suggest a future Pathway topic, please contact: Fiona Ryan (02) 6583 3600 fryan@ncphn.org.au (Mid North Coast) Kerrie Keyte (07) 5523 5507 kkeyte@ncphn.org.au (Northern NSW)

AMSFocus

Background Artwork by Alison Williams

PAL UPDATE Re-registration for Closing the Gap The time for re-registering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients under the Closing the Gap program is November to February. Re-registration of patients is a requirement for receiving the Indigenous Health Incentive PIP. North Coast Primary Health Network has Aboriginal Outreach Workers who would be happy to assist patients with their registration paperwork. If you would like an Outreach Worker to attend your practice for one morning in the registration period, please call the appropriate number below to organise a day and time that would suit you and your recall system. Coffs Harbour: 02 6659 1800 Port Macquarie: 02 6583 3600 Tweed Heads: 07 5523 5500 Kempsey: 02 6562 1055

Advance Care Yarning Advance care yarning has been designed to support Indigenous people with making advance care plans in the event of serious illness. The resource highlights the importance of making choices on future treatment, so family or those appointed can yarn on a person’s behalf and carry out their wishes. It also advocates the need for effective planning and includes an Advance Care Plan to help people accurately remember choices. This makes it easier to communicate a person’s wishes to doctors, nurses and Aboriginal Health Workers. Visit http://ow.ly/UMGx2 to access the resource.

In addition to outreach workers, Indigenous Health Project Officers are available in Lismore. These officers can assist you with the Closing the Gap program. Call our Lismore office on 02 6627 3300. Please don’t hesitate to contact the Indigenous Health Project Officers for any enquiries regarding the PIP Indigenous Health Incentive. HealthPathway available, Closing the Gap: http://ow.ly/U6Z2c Username: manchealth Password: conn3ct3d

CPR Video North Coast Primary Health Network and the Macleay Vocational College in Kempsey have recorded an easy-to-follow CPR video aimed at young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The project came out of First Aid Training at Macleay Vocational College and involved participants from diverse backgrounds. The opportunity to be involved in this project was a unique one for the kids. View the video at https://youtu.be/HIX03eBSdzE.

North Coast Primary Health Network is conducting a population-based Needs Assessment. Interviews, focus groups and surveys will be conducted in January and February 2016. If you are interested in participating, refer to page 3 for more information.

AgedCareFocus PAL UPDATE Decision Assist - phone advisory line Free specialist advice on advance care ranging from medication advice, symptom and pain management, psychosocial support and palliative care advice is available through the Decision Assist phone advisory line. The line is available for all staff working with people receiving aged care services either at home or in an aged care facility, including GPs, nurses, allied health professionals and personal care workers. This is part of the broader Australian Government-funded Decision Assist program to support aged care staff nationally. The phone line offers two streams of advice: advance care planning information and medication and symptom management information. Phone 1300 668 908 for specialist palliative care advice (available 24/7) and advance care planning advice (8 am to 8 pm, 7 days). Visit www.decisionassist.org.au for more information.

LAR Project The Listen, Acknowledge, Respond (LAR) project has launched a national survey for health care professionals working with people living with advanced chronic and terminal illness. The survey will measure the existing skills and knowledge of primary health, allied health and aged care workers to address mental health issues in those living with dying. The LAR baseline survey targets mental health clinicians, primary carers, nurses, the aged care workforce, pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers and speech therapists. The survey will be available online at http://ow.ly/Vj2po until January 2016. The LAR project will deliver a range of training workshops, including accredited CPD training, Certificate IV units and a Graduate Certificate in Integrated Chronic and Terminal Care, which will commence at CSU in 2016. All courses will be available online, as well as face-to-face CPD and Certificate IV workshops being offered around the country next year. Visit www.listenacknowledgerespond.com.au for more details about the training and research.

Dogs 4 Dementia Dogs 4 Dementia enable peoples who have dementia to remain living at home for longer. The program equips a person living with dementia and their carer with a dog that is carefully chosen to match their household personalities and then specially trained to meet their specific needs. Dogs are taught to respond to cues in ways that promote confidence and independence in a person living with dementia. Visit www.dogs4dementia.com.au for more information.

PharmacyFocus PAL UPDATE Get an early start on this year’s CPD NPS MedicineWise has an extensive range of topics and activities through which pharmacists can easily complete all CPD requirements for the coming year at no cost. Here’s a small sample of what’s on offer: •

Drug misuse: implications for pharmacists. This activity focuses on the role pharmacists can play in preventing the harmful use of pharmaceutical opioids and benzodiazepines.

•

Preventing fractures: where to start with osteoporosis – a new interactive case study. It’s estimated that 1 in 7 adults aged over 50 have osteoporosis. How can you help improve their adherence to osteoporosis medicines? What other advice would you provide to your patients?

•

Chronic pain: opioids and beyond, supporting a multimodal approach - pharmacy practice review. Longterm management of chronic pain requires a multimodal, bio-psychosocial approach. Learn about the full range of management options for chronic pain, access resources to support your patients and find out how to become an active member of a pain management team.

Visit http://ow.ly/VlNG0 for the full list of training activities.

AlliedHealthFocus PAL UPDATE LAR Project The Listen, Acknowledge, Respond (LAR) project has launched a national survey for health care professionals working with people living with advanced chronic and terminal illness. The survey will measure the existing skills and knowledge of primary health, allied health and aged care workers to address mental health issues in those living with dying. The LAR baseline survey targets mental health clinicians, primary carers, nurses, the aged care workforce, pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers and speech therapists. The survey will be available online at http://ow.ly/Vj2po until January 2016. The LAR project will deliver a range of training workshops, including accredited CPD training, Certificate IV units and a Graduate Certificate in Integrated Chronic and Terminal Care, which will commence at CSU in 2016. All courses will be available online, as well as faceto-face CPD and Certificate IV workshops being offered around the country next year. Visit http://ow.ly/Vytxq for details. 13

Nursing and Allied Health Scholarship and Support Scheme Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health (SARRAH) are currently accepting applications for the following Allied Health Scholarships: •

CPD. Visit http://ow.ly/VlOqx for more information.

•

Clinical Psychology. Visit http:// ow.ly/VlOKW for more information.

eMental health forum The National Institute for Mental Health Research at the Australian National University has launched an online forum - eMHPrac Exchange - for mental health workers, allied health practitioners, nurses and peer workers to share ways of working with Australian e-mental health resources. Health professionals can register to join conversations in the free Members Only forum. Visit http://ow.ly/VlQzD to learn more.

The WayAhead Directory New South Wales is getting ‘way ahead’ and has created an online directory for mental health services across the state. The WayAhead Directory is a comprehensive online database of mental health services in NSW. The directory is managed and maintained by WayAhead - Mental Health Association NSW. The directory contains up-to-date information on over 5,000 mental health related services across NSW. You will find a wealth of information on mental health including information and resources that help explain and define common mental health terms and jargon along with fact sheets on common mental illnesses. There is also information on key mental health legislation, current government programs which cover mental health treatment, and the structuring of government mental health services. Visit www.wayaheaddirectory.org.au today or call 1300 794 991 and speak to someone who can upload your details to the site.

“Let’s Get Connected” Launch, Seminar and Networking Event for Allied Health Professionals 5 March, 2016 Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour Come and hear renowned experts discussing the future direction of Allied Health and health care integration, including Keynote Speaker Professor Kathyrn Refshauge, Dr Teresa Anderson and Professor Susan Nancarrow. NCAHA is establishing itself as a benchmark for regionally-focussed Allied Health representation and networking. Even if you’re not from the NSW North Coast, this is a great opportunity to help create a shared vision for Allied Health in one of the best holiday destinations on the East Coast.

Tickets NCAHA Member $110 Non-NCAHA member $125 Student Enrollment $60 Optional Dinner (partners welcome) $75

Register by 31 December 2015 and enter the draw to win a night’s accommodation at Opal Cove Resort. Book tickets at: http://ow.ly/TpRmQ

The Australian Musculoskeletal Network has been contracted to help promote and manage this event. The AMSN was formed in 2013 in Byron Bay in an effort to promote good-quality local CPD events. The AMSN has run workshops on topics such as inflammatory arthritis, chronic pain and managing obesity. You can join the AMSN free of charge at www.amsn.com.au. The Australian Musculoskeletal Network 37 Tuckaroo Avenue Mullumbimby, NSW 2482 Phone: 0428 288 526 Email: info@amsn.com.au

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. Full instructions for the platform are available at http://bit.ly/1sJgRI7.

Government to remove common drugs from Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme The Australian Government will address inconsistencies in the nation’s PBS that see many concessional patients with a prescription for common medicines such as paracetamol and aspirin paying higher prices than if they simply purchased them over-the-counter. Minister for Health Sussan Ley confirmed the 17 types of common over-thecounter medicines for issues such as headaches, heartburn and constipation that will no longer be subsidised as a prescription drug under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from January 1 2016. The decision follows advice and consultation by the independent Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee and is part of the Government’s landmark PBS reforms, which passed the Senate earlier this year. Ms Ley said the measure would particularly benefit concessional patients who were sometimes paying two-to-three times the retail price of common medicines when they bought them through a prescription rather than over-the-counter. Read the full story at http://healthynorthcoast.org.au/top-stories-384/.

HNCNews New Allied Health Services for Evans Head and Coraki

One in two Aussie sunburns occur during everyday activity

North Coast Primary Health Network (NCPHN) is pleased to announce that it has contracted the services of a psychologist, a speech therapist and an occupational therapist for the Evans Head and Coraki communities.

New Cancer Council research findings show half of weekend sunburns occur while Australians are going about day-to-day activities, with the home replacing the iconic summer beach scene as a sunburn hotspot.

The psychologist is now available as part of NCPHN’s Healthy Minds Program in Evans Head. Healthy Minds provides free mental health services to people who would not otherwise be able to access psychological treatment. To be eligible, the person must have a government health care card or be suffering financial hardship. Referrals can be made on 02 6627 3396.

Cancer Council and the Australasian College of Dermatologists are joining forces this National Skin Cancer Action Week (1521 November) to remind Australians that when it comes to damage from UV radiation, ‘it all adds up’, whether by accident or attempts to tan, and increases the risk of skin damage and cancer.

Contracted speech pathology services commenced in the Coraki and Evans Head areas on 2 November 2015, providing services four days a week and offering more occasions of service than were provided in the 2014/2015 period.

Results from Cancer Council’s National Sun Survey show that over summer weekends, 50 per cent of adult sunburn occurs during everyday activities such as gardening and chores around the house, along with passive recreation activities such as reading, enjoying a picnic in the park or having a BBQ.

Similarly, occupational therapy services have been established two days a week. Contact the Spot4You and Spot4Kids therapists to make an appointment by phoning 1300 7768 4968. NCPHN’s General Manager, Service Delivery, Mr Chris Clark said that these new allied health contracts with private health care providers were part of the new agreement reached between the Commonwealth Government and Primary Health Networks. “The approach is designed to both increase access to services for the community and potentially create sustainable services for the future”, said Mr Clark. Read the full story at http://ow.ly/VlUbw.

According to the Chair of Cancer Council Australia’s Public Health Committee, Craig Sinclair, the figure dwarfs the 29 per cent of adults sunburnt during activities at the beach, lake or pool, as well as the 21 per cent sunburnt playing sport or taking part in other active recreation. “I think people will be surprised by these results,” Mr Sinclair said. “These ‘incidental’ sunburns are catching people out. It may not occur to people that sun protection is just as important whether you are in the backyard, lying in the park or hanging out at the beach.” Read the full story at http://ow.ly/VlUtX.

HNCEvents

December 2015 - March 2016 You can view the full North Coast Practitioner events calander at: www.healthynorthcoast.org.au/practitioner-events

Click the event title for more information.

Hastings-Macleay 14-15 December Regional Forum on Harm Minimisation, Kempsey

Mid North Coast 5 March North Coast Allied Health Forum, Coffs Harbour

Northern Rivers 15 December Restorative Care and Wellbeing, Goonellabah 27 February Pain Management, Ballina

Tweed Heads 18 February End-of-Life Care for GPs, Tweed Heads

Other Events 17 December Webinar: Using e-MH resources in your work: Practitionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Perspectives 18-19 February TheMHS Summer Forum, Sydney 25-26 February Interpersonal Psychotherapy Training for GPs and practice teams, Sydney

HNCclassifieds FEMALE GP WANTED, PARK AVENUE MEDICAL CENTRE A long-established boutique family practice is looking for a part-time or full-time female GP. For all enquiries, please phone 6652 4211 and speak with Dr Ian Scott, Practice Principal.

GP WANTED, SUNDOCTORS • • • • • •

Work alongside a team of experienced skin cancer experts Great mixture of patient interaction and procedural work Ongoing professional development and mentoring Earn significantly more than generalist GP Established and successful clinics Excellent practice support team and facilities

An exciting opportunity exists for general practitioners with an interest in skin cancer medicine to join our busy and established practices. At SunDoctors, you will be working alongside experienced skin cancer experts to deliver the highest quality skin cancer care. In joining the team you will inherit a large existing patient base, plus a significant daily influx of new patients. SunDoctors supports flexible work arrangements, taking on doctors from as little as one day a week up to full-time, and your start and finish times are completely up to you. When you work with SunDoctors, you act as an independent contractor, meaning no fixed terms and no restraints. To apply, please call 1300 115 759 or email recruitment@sundoctors.com.au.

KINGSCLIFF OPPORTUNITY Would you like an easy way to supplement your current income? Or maybe you are looking for something that fits around your life a bit better? Doctor To You, an after hours home visit service, is proud to announce its expansion into Kingscliff. As one of their after hours doctors, you will be part of a team that includes GPs, GP registrars and hospital doctors providing urgent medical care to those that need it most. The aim is to reduce the pressure on Emergency Departments whilst making sure patients still receive a high standard of care. Doctor To You pride themselves on the personal connection they make with all their doctors, making sure rosters maintain a healthy work/ life balance as well as maintaining a close relationship so doctors can always voice any concerns. The work undertaken with Doctor To You is recognised by FRACGP and therefore counts towards fellowship, making it an excellent step in your career for professional development. After hours home visits have incredible earning potential (medicare bulk billing # 597), but rosters are still flexible to fit your lifestyle (over 100 hours to choose from). Doctor To You also provides full practice and admin support, so you can focus on what really matters: patient care. The potential in Kingscliff is massive and Doctor To You hopes they can find someone to share the success with. Please note : Minimum of Limited AHPRA Registration with level 3 supervision is required. Contact: Julie Simmons 0429 932 906 julie@doctortoyou.com.au

HNCclassifieds COFFS HARBOUR ACAT, RAS AND COMMUNITY INTAKE The Coffs Harbour Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), Regional Assessment Team (RAS) and Community Intake have moved to new offices in the Specialist Medical Centre, opposite the main hospital. Please note the new contact numbers for these services. Community Intake: 6656 7646 Ext 23981 or 6656 7647 Ext 23982 ACAT Reception: 6656 7688 or 6656 7693

GP WANTED, GRANGE FAMILY MEDICAL CENTRE An exciting opportunity exists for a General Practitioner to establish or relocate to this friendly centre and join the team. The Grange Family Medical Centre is a newly-established practice within Port Macquarie, adjacent to the private hospital, with pharmacy, allied health, imaging and pathology virtually on site. • • • •

Fully computerised Mixed billing Excellent support team Flexible hours

For further information, please contact Dr Adam King by phoning (02) 6584 5244 or email thegrangeclinic@gmail.com.

ROOM AVAILABLE, OCEAN SHORES I am a trained laser technician who works with PCOS patients and the general public. I have recently moved into a new clinic which has a vacant treatment room. Interested parties will need: a bed and computer (with secure storage). Costs will include reception/nurse, fax and phone and/or other outgoings. This clinic specialises in Cradle to the Grave care. The room will be available for rent in December 2015. Photos available by request. Contact Jacqui Cardilini at jcardilini.laser@gmail.com. 19

EOI FOR MID AND NORTH COAST HEALTHPATHWAYS SENIOR CLINICIANS Are you a GP with at least five years experience practicing in Northern NSW or on the Mid North Coast? Would you like to make it easier for GPs to refer patients to the services they need? The HealthPathways team is seeking Expressions of Interest from GPs interested in part time or casual roles developing content for the HealthPathways site. For further information, visit http://ow.ly/VylzO or contact Dr Dan Ewald, Lead Clinical Advisor at NCPHN. Email dewald@ncphn.org.au. To apply, please complete the form located at http://ow.ly/VyjIM.

KEMPSEY DISTRICT HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT The new Clinical Services Building at Kempsey District Hospital has opened. The following services can be accessed: • • • • •

Hydrotherapy Physiotherapy High Dependency/Coronary Care Unit Medical Unit Operating Theatres

Access the new Emergency Department via the new Polwood Street entrance. All other services such as Maternity, Renal, Rehabilitation and Mental Health will continue to operate as usual from their current locations in the existing hospital buildings.

Contact NCPHN Head Office Suite 6, 85 Tamar Street Ballina NSW 2478 Phone: 02 6618 5400 Fax: 02 6618 5499 Email: enquiries@ncphn.org.au Northern Rivers Tarmons House St Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Campus 20 Dalley Street East Lismore NSW 2480 Phone: 02 6627 3300 Fax: 02 6622 3185 Email: nr@ncphn.org.au Tweed Heads Level 3, 145 Wharf Street Tweed Heads NSW 2485 Phone: 07 5589 0500 Email: tv@ncphn.org.au

Hastings Macleay 53 Lord Street Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Phone: 02 6583 3600 Fax: 02 6583 8600 Email: hm@ncphn.org.au Mid North Coast Suite 6, 1 Duke Street Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 Phone: 02 6659 1800 Fax: 02 6659 1899 Email: mnc@ncphn.org.au