The current wait time for new Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients for both the private and public neurology services across the Hunter New England Local Health District is significant. Patients can expect to await up to and beyond 12 months to secure an appointment. A number of private neurologists are at capacity and have closed their books.
Over the last few years communities across the Hunter New England and Central Coast region have experienced challenging times as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the impacts from natural disasters such as major flood events.
May marks Lung Health Awareness Month, a national campaign for the Lung Foundation focusing on raising awareness about the importance of lung health and the signs and symptoms of lung disease.
As a result of COVID-19 control measures, flu cases remained at historically low levels in 2021. With the easing of these public health measures there is likely to be a resurgence of flu this winter, potentially co-circulating with COVID-19.
Residents of the Hunter and New England regions are being urged to book in with their doctor for a Heart Health Check this this Heart Week, May 2-8, in light of statistics which reveal that they are 17% more likely to die from heart disease than the national average.
The PHN's Health-e Together Digital Care grants offer an opportunity for General Practice, Aboriginal Medical Services and Allied Health practioners to upgrade or implement digital health foundational services and supports. There is also a dedicated grant stream for improving telehealth services into Residential Aged Care facilities.
70 Central Coast GPs have received scholarships to complete a range of skin cancer qualifications and update their knowledge in the detection and treatment of skin cancers.
The Commonwealth Dept. of Health has developed a range of resources for health professionals and vaccination providers to support the 2022 influenza vaccination program
A number of Central Coast locations have recently been classified Distribution Priority Areas, enabling local practices to widen their search for doctors.
headspace Taree has officially opened its doors, providing a vital new support service for young people in the area