North West Hospital and Health Service (North West HHS) in partnership with Queensland Health Strategic Communications Branch and the Menzies School of Health Research will be hosting a series of workshops in Mount Isa to increase awareness and improve skills related to Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Health Disease (RHD).

These workshops are designed for everyone working in health, education, and other community services who care for and support people with ARF and RHD.

Executive Director of First Nations Health, Christine Mann, emphasises the importance of continuous education to support First Nations communities to prevent RHD.

“These workshops are a crucial step in empowering our healthcare and community workers with the knowledge and skills they need to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by RHD,” Ms Mann says.

“By focussing on prevention and proper management, we can significantly reduce the impact of these conditions in our communities and move closer to our goal of First Nations Health Equity.”

Held at the Terrace Gardens Function Centre on 23 and 24 July, each workshop session is approximately three hours.

Sessions include the importance of managing throat and skin infections in high-risk populations and the latest strategies and interventions for preventing and managing ARF and RHD in line with best practice.

Participants will receive a comprehensive workbook, access to clinical and cultural safety training, and links to a range of other tools and information.

Executive Director of Remote Health Services, Clare Newton, speaks to the importance of developing partnerships to increase community awareness and engagement.

“‘This RHD training will be delivered in partnership with the Queensland Health Strategic Communications Branch and Menzies School of Health Research, an initiative that underscores Queensland’s commitment to continuous learning and improving patient outcomes through collaboration and education.” Ms Newton states.

Queensland Health Strategic Communications Branch spokesperson, Carolin Klinger, is an advocate for continuous education among health professionals to eliminate RHD in high-risk communities.

“Queensland Health is thrilled to offer such a diverse group of (healthcare) professionals these important workshops. We really need as many professionals to be aware of RHD to prevent it as well as provide the best care to manage those who are living with it." Ms Klinger said.

These workshops provide a valuable opportunity for enhancing skills and knowledge, ultimately improving the quality of care provided to people living with ARF and RHD.

For more information, please contact the Queensland Health Strategic Communications Branch Tanya.Saldanha@health.qld.gov.au.