To receive important alerts and updates from Gold Coast Primary Health Network, please submit the form below.
To receive important alerts and updates from Gold Coast Primary Health Network, please submit the form below.
Both conditions are preventable, yet are being seen frequently across the state. ARF occurs after repeated episodes of infection with Group A Strep, and its sequalae, RHD occurs after repeated ARF episodes. RHD causes permanent damage to the heart. Both ARF and RHD are notifiable conditions under the Public Health Act and must be notified to the Register.
The RHD Register, aims to educate health care providers across QLD and support them to achieve timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and management and set up sustainable, locally appropriate processes to support adherence to Bicillin treatment. The Program can provide training tailored to your workplace – whether it be specific training for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers, training on intramuscular injection technique or reducing the pain and trauma of Bicillin; the clinical staff will have something for your facility.
The Program also advocates for portfolio holders, or ‘RHD CHAMPIONS’ in the community. These champions work closely with the Program Clinical Nurse Consultants to act as a resource in the community for other staff and patients.
Pictured is AmyLou Brown, who is the RHD CHAMPION on Thursday Island. AmyLou works closely with the team on Thursday Island to provide the best standard of care for the patients with ARF and RHD, and to set up processes to ensure patients get their Bicillin on time, every time. AmyLou is wearing one of the new RHD CHAMPION t-shirts. These shirts have been made using an artwork designed for the Program by Indigenous artist Arone Meeks. Arone is a Kuku Midigi man who has developed an artwork that depicts the ARF and RHD journey.
RHD CHAMPIONs are integral to the success of local programs. If you know a champion in your area who deserves one of these amazing shirts please let us know.
If you would like to get in touch with the QLD Register about assistance with diagnosis, developing localised protocols for your facilities, arranging some education or if you have queries in regards to patient data or information please contact 1300 135 854 or ArfRhdRegister@health.qld.gov.au
And remember – Think ARF, Stop RHD.
So we can provide you with the most accurate information,
please tell us a little more about yourself
