Plan to address key health issues in the region

A NEW health report has identified mental health, melanoma rates, low immunisation, and limited access to primary care and hospital services as key priorities for the North Coast over the next three years.

Healthy North Coast says its latest health needs assessment draws on insights from more than 3200 community responses, along with detailed data analysis.

The report highlights specific challenges across the region, including gaps in access to treatment for older residents and geographical disparities in service availability.

Additional fact sheets have been developed to address priority areas, including Aboriginal health and wellbeing.

Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the community’s input had been crucial.

“We thank the community members, health professionals and service providers who generously shared their time, experiences, and knowledge in the health needs assessment process,” she said.

“Your input has been vital in shaping a local health needs assessment that reflects the diverse communities of the North Coast.

“It gives us a clear path forward to make sure the right services are available in the right areas, to improve health in our region.”

The health needs assessment is undertaken every three years and helps guide future planning and funding decisions.

Previous assessments have shaped the delivery of services such as the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service and GP outreach clinics for people experiencing homelessness.

Other initiatives include the Primary Care Access program, which offers free same-day GP appointments via telehealth triage, as well as health education programs and immunisation support.

See the full report at hnc.org.au/health-needs-assessment-25-28