At Rutherford Doctors, we are deeply committed to providing culturally safe, respectful, and high-quality healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in Rutherford and surrounding communities. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. We understand that health encompasses not just physical well-being, but also the social, emotional, and cultural well-being of individuals and the community. Our goal is to partner with you to achieve the best possible health outcomes through accessible and appropriate Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford.
We recognise the importance of initiatives aimed at closing the health gap and are dedicated to supporting programs like the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Check (MBS Item 715) and the Closing the Gap (CTG) PBS Co-payment measure. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment where you feel comfortable, heard, and respected while accessing the Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford you need.
Understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience health disparities compared to non-Indigenous Australians, a gap stemming from historical and ongoing social determinants of health. Improving access to effective, culturally appropriate primary healthcare is crucial in addressing these disparities.
At Rutherford Doctors, we view health holistically, aligning with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspective that encompasses connection to land, culture, spirituality, family, and community alongside physical health. Our approach to providing Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford is grounded in understanding these connections and working collaboratively with patients.
Our Commitment to Culturally Safe Practice
Cultural safety goes beyond awareness; it’s about creating an environment free from discrimination where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients feel safe, respected, and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Our commitment to cultural safety involves:
- Respect: Valuing Indigenous cultures, knowledge, and perspectives.
- Communication: Listening actively, communicating clearly, and ensuring understanding. Using plain language and involving interpreters or support persons if needed.
- Understanding: Continuously learning about local Indigenous cultures, history, and health needs. Recognising the impact of past policies and experiences on health and trust.
- Welcoming Environment: Ensuring our clinic space is welcoming and accessible.
- Collaboration: Working respectfully with patients, families, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) or Aboriginal Liaison Officers where appropriate.
We are committed to ongoing learning and improvement in providing culturally safe Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Check (MBS Item 715)
The annual Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Check (Medicare Benefits Schedule Item 715) is a vital tool for prevention and early detection of health conditions. It’s available free to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals of all ages.
Purpose: The 715 Health Check provides an opportunity for a comprehensive health assessment, identifying health needs, promoting preventative care, and establishing a baseline for ongoing health management. It’s a key component of the Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford we offer.
Eligibility: All individuals who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander are eligible for one 715 Health Check per year.
What It Involves: The check is tailored to the patient’s age and gender but generally includes:
- Information Gathering: Discussing medical history, family history, lifestyle (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol), social and emotional well-being, and connection to culture.
- Physical Examination: Measuring height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, and performing other relevant checks.
- Investigations: Assessing the need for blood tests (e.g., blood sugar, cholesterol), urine tests, hearing and vision checks.
- Risk Assessment: Identifying risks for chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease.
- Preventative Advice: Discussing immunisations, cancer screening, healthy lifestyle choices.
- Developing a Follow-Up Plan: Outlining any necessary actions, referrals, or future appointments.
Benefits:
- Early detection of health problems.
- Proactive management of chronic disease risk factors.
- Access to appropriate follow-up care and referrals.
- Opportunity to discuss health concerns in a dedicated appointment.
We strongly encourage all our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients to undertake their annual 715 Health Check with their GP as part of our Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford.
Closing the Gap (CTG) PBS Co-payment Measure
Accessing affordable medication is crucial for managing health conditions. The Closing the Gap (CTG) PBS Co-payment measure helps eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by reducing the cost of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicines.
Explanation: Under this measure, eligible patients pay a lower co-payment (or receive medication free if they have a concession card) for most PBS prescriptions.
Eligibility: To be eligible, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person must:
- Be enrolled in Medicare.
- Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
- Have a GP confirm they could experience medication access barriers or are living with (or at risk of) a chronic disease.
- Be registered for the CTG measure by their GP or an Indigenous Health Service.
How it Helps: By reducing the cost barrier, the CTG measure makes it easier to adhere to prescribed medication regimens, which is particularly important for managing chronic diseases. Your GP at Rutherford Doctors can help determine your eligibility and register you for the CTG measure as part of our comprehensive Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford.
Chronic Disease Management for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Patients
Chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and respiratory conditions disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford include culturally appropriate chronic disease management.
This involves:
- Tailored GP Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs): Developed collaboratively, respecting cultural values and individual needs.
- Regular Reviews: Consistent monitoring and support.
- CTG Registration: Assisting eligible patients to access lower-cost medications.
- Culturally Appropriate Referrals: Connecting patients with suitable allied health professionals (potentially including Aboriginal Health Workers if available in the network) and specialists.
- Focus on Self-Management Support: Empowering patients with knowledge and skills in a way that resonates culturally.
Preventative Health: A Priority
Prevention and early detection are cornerstones of our Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford. We actively promote:
- Immunisations: Ensuring children and adults are up-to-date with vaccinations according to the National Immunisation Program and specific recommendations.
- Cancer Screening: Encouraging participation in national screening programs for bowel cancer, breast cancer (BreastScreen), and cervical cancer (National Cervical Screening Program) in a culturally sensitive manner.
- Lifestyle Advice: Providing tailored guidance on nutrition, physical activity, smoking cessation (e.g., connecting with Quitline or local Tackling Indigenous Smoking programs), and responsible alcohol consumption.
Mental Health and Social and Emotional Well-being
We recognise the critical importance of social and emotional well-being within the holistic view of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. Stressors related to dispossession, discrimination, grief, loss, and trauma can significantly impact mental health.
Our GPs provide a safe space to discuss these concerns and offer:
- Assessment and Support: For conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma.
- Culturally Appropriate Referrals: Connecting patients with Indigenous mental health services, psychologists, counsellors, or community support programs where available and appropriate.
- Development of Mental Health Care Plans: Facilitating access to subsidised mental health services.
Supporting social and emotional well-being is integral to our Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford.
Working with Other Services
We understand the importance of collaboration to provide comprehensive care. We aim to work effectively with:
- Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS) / Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs): Liaising and sharing care where appropriate and with patient consent.
- Aboriginal Liaison Officers and Health Workers: Collaborating with these vital roles within hospitals or other community services.
- Community Programs: Connecting patients with relevant local support services and programs.
Why Choose Rutherford Doctors for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health?
We strive to be a trusted healthcare provider for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our community by offering:
- Commitment to Cultural Safety: Ongoing efforts to provide a respectful and welcoming service.
- Comprehensive Primary Care: Addressing a wide range of health needs.
- Support for Key Initiatives: Proactive offering of 715 Health Checks and assistance with CTG registration.
- Experienced GPs: Dedicated doctors committed to improving Indigenous health outcomes.
- Focus on Prevention and Chronic Disease Management: Tailored care plans and support.
- Accessible Location: Providing Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford locally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – ATSI Health
- Q: How do I let the clinic know I identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander?
- A: You can let our reception staff or your GP know at any time. This information is kept confidential and helps us offer relevant services like the 715 Health Check and CTG registration.
- Q: Is the 715 Health Check mandatory?
- A: No, it’s entirely voluntary, but highly recommended as a way to proactively manage your health.
- Q: How long does a 715 Health Check take?
- A: It’s usually a longer appointment than a standard consultation to allow for a thorough assessment. Please mention you are booking for a 715 Health Check so adequate time can be allocated.
- Q: Do I need to bring anything to my 715 Health Check?
- A: Bring your Medicare card. It’s also helpful to think about any health concerns or questions you might have beforehand.
Your Health Matters: Partner with Us
Your health and well-being are important. We invite Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Rutherford community to partner with us for culturally safe and comprehensive healthcare. Let us support you through our dedicated Aboriginal Health Services Rutherford.
Contact us today to book an appointment or a 715 Health Check:
- Call Us: (02) 4061 7981
- Visit Us: E5-7, 1 Hillview Street, Rutherford, NSW 2320
- Book Online Now
