Preparing for the effects of drought. Information for primary care providers.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has declared that an El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) are underway. When a positive IOD and El Niño occur together, their drying effect is typically stronger and more widespread across Australia. This includes a higher risk of water scarcity, heat events, flash droughts and early onset of fire weather conditions (1).

Drought is a recurring environmental challenge in the Hunter New England and Central Coast area, with some areas declared as increasingly drought affected since as early as spring 2023.

Primary producers are the most heavily affected group as drought impacts threaten their livelihoods.

Health providers and drought

While the business risk for primary care providers may be much lower, their businesses may still be exposed to drought mitigation efforts, and they may be affected by secondary disaster impacts of drought such as increased need for mental health support and suicide prevention for affected patients.

Severe drought can also affect air quality by making bushfires and dust exposure more likely, increasing health risk in people already impacted by chronic cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart disease (2).

The economic effects of drought are typically exacerbated by the rising cost of living. Medical practitioners can play a vital role in alleviating energy costs for their high-level care patients by verifying their need on the 'NSW Life Support Rebate medical declaration' form or the NSW Medical Energy Rebate Application Form - Electricity (energyaustralia.com.au). Patients may also enquire with their provider about retailer specific forms for rebates. The NSW Life Support Energy Rebate helps pay electricity bills for people who need or have someone living with them who needs to use approved energy-intensive life support equipment at home (such as home dialysis, ventilators and oxygen concentrators) (2).

Preparedness measures for primary care businesses

Efficient water use is crucial during drought. Healthcare facilities should implement water conservation measures to reduce their water consumption, and the NSW Government provides valuable guidance on water conservation strategies for businesses (source).

Mental health services

There are numerous mental health and wellbeing support services available to support drought affected farmers and communities. It is helpful for primary care providers to have the details of such providers ready on hand.

The PHN commissions a range of mental health services reflecting local needs that focus on safe, effective, and quality care Mental Health - Primary Health Network (thephn.com.au)