Our People to Live Stronger & Longer

Month: August 2023

Emergency Activation Response Framework for the NSW ACCHO sector.

Posted on by Pawas Gupta

On the back of COVID 19 pandemic and various natural disasters in recent times, the AH&MRC Public Health team have been working over the past 6 months to develop an Emergency Activation Response Framework for the NSW ACCHO sector.

The Framework provides a high-level and practical plan for the early stages of responding to an emergency and The Appendix supports the Framework, considering the four phases of emergency management: prevention, preparedness, response and recovery, with specific considerations and useful tips for different emergencies.

The Public Health team engaged consultants Public Health Matters to assist with development of the Framework. In March 2023, a targeted literature review was conducted of existing health emergency frameworks from around Australia and internationally, with a focus on Indigenous communities. During the process we also established an AH&MRC Emergency Response Committee with representatives from ACCHO’s involved in floods, fires and the Pandemic; as well as representatives from NSW Ministry of Health State Preparedness and Response Unit, and the Centre for Aboriginal Health.  This committee met for a full day meeting on 12th April 2023, and discussions from the meeting informed the development of the Framework and Appendix.

The finalised first versions of these resources have been distributed to CEO’s of our Member Services. Through our Public Health team and Regional Engagement Officers on the ground, the AH&MRC hope to also engage ACCHO’s in discussions to encourage use of these resources and to provide feedback, so that we can evaluate and update as necessary.

The AH&MRC hope that the Emergency Activation Response Framework will be valuable in supporting ACCHOS as they transition from the COVID 19 pandemic and continue the ongoing process of planning to respond to future Public Health Emergencies impacting Aboriginal communities in NSW.

AHM_Emergency Activation Framework for the NSW ACCHO network_FA

The Course in Ear Wax Removal (Irrigation) 11030 – Enhancing Ear Health Assessment and Clinical Practice

Posted on by Pawas Gupta

The Course in Ear Wax Removal (Irrigation) 11030 NAT – Enhancing Ear Health Assessment and Clinical Practice was attended by our ear and eye health team on Monday, 24th July, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, at Quest Dubbo, 22 Bultje Street, Dubbo NSW 2830. This event successfully equipped our team with the essential skills to confidently support Ear Wax Removal (Irrigation) while enhancing Ear Health Assessment, prioritizing safe clinical practices, and ensuring workplace readiness with a profound understanding of evolving treatment considerations and efficient processes.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Gain comprehensive knowledge of the ear’s basic anatomy and function, including the key landmarks of the tympanic membrane.
  • Develop the ability to assess the ear thoroughly, enabling precise wax management decisions while identifying potential risks and risk management strategies.
  • Recognize and manage complications that may arise during ear irrigation, ensuring proper documentation and follow-up procedures.
  • Acquire the competencies necessary for successful ear irrigation.

Benchmarque Group, a leading Ear Health training provider, successfully conducted an accredited Ear Irrigation face-to-face workshop in response to the high demand for this course in the Western and Northern Regions. Held on the 24th of July in Dubbo, the workshop was attended by clinical staff from five ACCHS, including Gilgandra Aboriginal Medical Service, Orange Aboriginal Medical Service, Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service, Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service, and Waminda.

Upon completion of the course, participants have gained the skills and knowledge required to safely perform ear assessments, assessed on the day by a clinical trainer, and are now accredited in ear wax removal (irrigation). This accreditation equips them to be workplace-ready. The overwhelming interest expressed by ACCHS staff has led to further plans to upskill and pursue the recommended training in the Course in Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction).