Living a healthy lifestyle is crucial for everyone, but especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who face higher rates of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Fortunately, there are many ways to embrace a culturally appropriate and empowering approach to well-being. Connect with specialists who provide culturally sensitive and comprehensive healthcare designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health
Conditions within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health
No items found.
What is a Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner
An Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner is an AHPRA-registered health professional who provides culturally safe primary health care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They complete a nationally recognised qualification in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander primary health care practice. They often work in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and GP clinics alongside doctors and nurses. A first appointment may include a health check, help with medicines, managing a chronic condition or linking you with other services. You do not need a referral. Other practitioners, including GPs, also provide culturally safe care.
How Can Culturally Safe Practitioners Help?
Chronic Condition Care
Diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease are more common in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Your GP can help find them early, manage medicines and set up a care plan, which can include Medicare-subsidised allied health visits.
Social and Emotional Wellbeing
Wellbeing is connected to culture, Country, family and community. A practitioner can support stress, grief, low mood or worry in culturally respectful ways. 13YARN on 13 92 76 offers crisis support from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Pregnancy and Childhood
Culturally safe care during pregnancy and early childhood helps mums, bubs and families get a healthy start. Practitioners can support antenatal check-ups, breastfeeding, immunisations and child development checks, and link families with local programs and services.
Care Coordination
Getting the right care can mean seeing several services. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners and health workers can help you book appointments, understand results and medicines, and connect with specialists, transport or support.
Regular Health Checks
Medicare funds a health check for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of all ages. Your GP or Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service can use it to check your physical, social and emotional health and plan follow-up.
Quitting Smoking Support
Quitting smoking is one of the best things for your health. A GP, health worker or pharmacist can help. Quitline on 13 7848 offers free support, and you can ask for an Aboriginal counsellor.
