Through this column, we hope to provide regular information on the health services provided at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and in the community, and the ever-expanding programs on offer through the Redfern Health Centre.
Did you know you can access HIV services, harm minimisation programs, drug health services and mental health support through the Redfern Health Centre? We also provide Sydney District Nursing services, which can support you at home with palliative care, wound management, continence assessment and management, health coaching, and Hospital in the Home for hospital-type care in your own home.
Our teams also work closely with many NGOs and other government agencies in the area to provide support at RedLink and Poet’s Corner, because we know it can be difficult to get to RPA or know what services are on offer for you and your family.
One of our most successful new programs has been Healthy Homes and Neighbourhoods, where we work in partnership to identify vulnerable families, link them in with the services they need and provide care coordination with GPs and other services.
Last week, as part of our ongoing commitment to improving the health of the Redfern Waterloo community, we held a free flu vaccination clinic at Redfern Health Centre and it was pleasing to see so many people take advantage of the service and protect themselves against influenza. If you missed out, please visit your GP who can provide free flu shots to those who are pregnant, aged over 65 years or under five, most Aboriginal people and those with medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart problems.
We all have a role to play in protecting the most vulnerable members of our community so please remember to also cough or sneeze into your elbow; wash your hands regularly and stay home from work or school when you are sick.
In other news, we have recently appointed Kristian Reyes in a new role which will provide Redfern Waterloo residents with a point of contact within Sydney Local Health District and assistance with navigating the health system.
The need for the position was identified through our partnerships with a range of human service agencies and the Waterloo community.
Kristian will be based at The Factory in Waterloo every Wednesday and for two days a week at Redfern Health Centre. He brings a wealth of experience to the role and I know you will all make him feel welcome.
Until next time, stay healthy.
