Workshops - rheumatic heart disease in First Nations communities

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CQ Health and the Menzies School of Health Research are holding clinical workshops on preventing, recognising, and managing acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in First Nations communities.

All health workers involved in the care of First Nations people with ARF and RHD are encouraged to attend.

The workshops run for approximately five hours, and count for four hours of Continuing Professional Development.

Refreshments, clinical resources and certificates of attendance will be provided.

Workshop locations and dates:

  • Biloela - Monday 27 November, 10am-3pm
  • Woorabinda - Tuesday 28 November, 10am-3pm
  • Emerald - Wednesday 29 November, 10am-3pm
  • Rockhampton - Thursday 30 November , 10am-3pm

Register to attend:

Email your name, position, contact details and preferred session to CQHHSEDFN@health.qld.gov.au

Workshop topics:

  • Opportunities for preventing ARF and RHD
  • Importance of managing throat and skin infections in high-risk populations, including swabbing for streptococcus (Strep A)
  • Recognising and managing ARF
  • Secondary prevention of ARF
  • Recommended care for people living with RHD
  • Relevant health service referral pathways
  • Role of the Queensland RHD register and control program
  • How to communicate and deliver culturally safe and accessible healthcare to First Nations people and communities

The workshops align with the End Rheumatic Heart Disease, Queensland First Nations Strategy 2021-2024, which aims to eliminate RHD in First Nations communities by 2031. The Strategy recognises the importance of prevention, early detection, and management of RHD to reduce its impact on individuals and communities.

More information:

Contact the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Wellbeing team at CQ Health.

Email CQHHSEDFN@health.qld.gov.au
Phone (07) 4932 5161