A new Rapid Outreach Service (ROS) will become available throughout the Tweed and Byron Shires from late-2023 offering in-home care seven days a week.
According to Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park today Patients, their families and carers living in Tweed, Byron and Murwillumbah communities will have more options for timely, tailored healthcare with a new urgent care service in the region.
‘The new Rapid Outreach Service will reduce unnecessary trips to the emergency department,’ said Mr Park.
‘We know many people who visit our emergency departments (EDs) could receive more timely and better tailored care within a community setting. The Rapid Outreach Service will enable patients to be treated in the comfort of their own homes, which will make a big difference.
‘This model is designed to create better links between the hospital and primary care systems – providing an additional option for people to receive urgent care for injuries and illnesses when a GP is unavailable.’
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the service would boost access to health care in the region.
‘By providing care and support in person in the patient’s own home or aged care facility, as well as through virtual care platforms, it removes the burden of having to travel to hospital or the GP for healthcare,’ Ms Saffin said.
No cost – 7 days
Care will be provided at no cost to the patient and will include access to pathology, radiology and allied health services.
The Rapid Outreach Service will operate seven days a week and patients can be referred through several avenues, including via Healthdirect, NSW Ambulance or emergency department staff.
The model will include access to care from GPs, nurses, allied health clinicians and extended care paramedics.
It can also link in with other services such as Aboriginal Health Workers and Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Services.
Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot welcomed the new service.
‘This is yet another innovative project which will really benefit people here in northern NSW,’ Ms Elliot said.
Just wondering why Ballina shire isn’t covered by an excellent service like this?
Pauline, I can easily answer that, we have an invisible Greens MP.