Health & Wellbeing
Access to health and wellbeing services in the Northern Rivers is broad and covers a range of agencies and service providers. Understanding the available healthcare centres, services, and support systems can help ensure a smooth transition for any relocation. Consider registering with local GP clinics and healthcare providers to facilitate continuity of care for you and your family.
Complementary health care and wellbeing services, in the Northern Rivers, are thriving and deeply rooted in the community's holistic approach to health and wellness.
Hospitals
Twelve hospitals in the Northern Rivers region offer a comprehensive range of services to the community.
Lismore Base Hospital serves as a major referral and teaching center, providing emergency care, medical specialties, pediatrics, and mental health services.
The Tweed Hospital is a regional referral center, offering surgical procedures, critical care, and mental health services. The new Tweed Valley Hospital is set to open in 2024.
Ballina District Hospital caters to general medical and surgical needs.
Byron Central Hospital offers various healthcare services, including emergency and specialized medical care.
Murwillumbah District Hospital provides emergency and maternity services, and Casino and
Kyogle Memorial Hospital offers general medical care to their respective communities.
Grafton Base Hospital serves the Clarence Valley, offering general medical, surgical, and emergency services.
Maclean District Hospital provides essential healthcare support and rehabilitation services.
Allied Health
Allied health services complement primary healthcare and play a crucial role in the holistic management of patients. These services are provided by professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, speech therapists, dietitians, and social workers. They assist in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of various health conditions.
In the Northern Rivers, allied health services are available in hospitals, private clinics, community health centers, and some primary care settings. They cater to a wide range of needs, including musculoskeletal issues, mental health, developmental delays, speech disorders, and nutritional guidance.
Aged Care and Disability Support
The Australian health system in Northern Rivers NSW emphasizes community care to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and their carers. Aged care services are designed to meet the specific needs of older adults, promoting their independence, well-being, and quality of life. These services encompass residential aged care facilities, home care packages, day respite centers, and specialised dementia care. Disability support services focus on assisting individuals with disabilities in accessing appropriate care, accommodation, therapy, and support services to enhance their inclusion and independence.
Indigenous Health
Across the Northern Rivers there are culturally appropriate health services and support programs that cater to the specific needs of Indigenous communities. Some of these include Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Services (ACCHS) such as Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation and Bullinah Aboriginal Health Service. A range of locations for Aboriginal Medical Services on NSW North Coast also provide the indiegnous community with localised and culturally approrpriate health services.
Community Services
Beyond medical, allied health, disability, aged care and indigenous health, there are other community services available to residents of the Northern Rivers including:
Family and Domestic Violence Services: These services provide assistance, shelter, and counseling for individuals and families affected by domestic violence and abuse.Â
Youth Services: Youth centers, programs, and support services cater to the needs of young people, offering educational support, counseling, and recreational activities.
Community Housing: Affordable housing options and housing support programs are available to help individuals and families access safe and stable housing.
Community Legal Services: Legal aid and advice services assist individuals with legal issues, ensuring access to justice and protection of rights.
Community Centers: Community centers serve as hubs for various activities, such as workshops, social gatherings, and cultural events. They promote community engagement and cohesion.
Crisis Support: Crisis support services offer assistance during emergencies and difficult times, including food relief, financial support, and counseling.
Drug and Alcohol Services: Programs for substance abuse prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation help individuals overcome addiction and lead healthier lives.
Transport and Mobility Services: Services ensure access to transportation for those with mobility challenges or limited access to private vehicles.
Complementary Health
Here are some of the complementary health care and wellbeing services you can find in the Northern Rivers:
Naturopathy:
Naturopathy is a popular practice in the region, focusing on natural healing methods and supporting the body's innate ability to heal. Naturopaths offer individualized treatments that may include herbal medicine, nutrition counseling, lifestyle advice, and other holistic therapies.
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
Acupuncture and TCM are well-established in the Northern Rivers. Practitioners use acupuncture to restore energy balance and promote healing. Other TCM modalities include herbal medicine, cupping, and moxibustion.
Yoga and Meditation:
The Northern Rivers is a hub for yoga and meditation enthusiasts. Numerous studios and wellness centers offer a variety of yoga classes, mindfulness practices, and meditation sessions to promote relaxation and mental well-being.
Massage Therapy:
Massage therapists in the region offer various modalities, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, and remedial massage. These services are sought after for relaxation, stress relief, and therapeutic benefits.
Energy Healing:
The Northern Rivers is home to various energy healing practitioners, such as Reiki, Healing Touch, and other modalities that focus on balancing and restoring the body's energy systems.
Ayurveda:
Ayurvedic practitioners offer ancient Indian healing practices that promote harmony and balance in the body through diet, lifestyle adjustments, herbal medicine, and body therapies.
Herbal Medicine:
Herbalists in the region provide natural remedies using medicinal plants and herbs to address a wide range of health conditions and promote overall well-being.
Mind-Body Therapies:
Mind-body therapies like Breathwork, Feldenkrais, and Somatic Experiencing are gaining popularity in the Northern Rivers, offering approaches that address the connection between the mind and body.
Holistic Counseling and Psychotherapy:
Holistic counselors and therapists in the area take a whole-person approach to mental and emotional health, incorporating various healing modalities to support clients.
Sound Healing and Music Therapy:
Sound healers and music therapists use sound and music to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and facilitate healing.
Wellness Retreats:
The Northern Rivers region is known for its wellness retreats, offering immersive experiences that combine various complementary health practices to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Links to Resources
|
Northern NSW Local Health District Hospitals |
Summary and links to all 2 hospitals and multi-purpose centres in the region. |
|
Healthy North Coast – Primary Health Network provider  |
Independent not-for-profit organisation delivering the Primary Health Network program for the North Coast from Port Macquarie to the Tweed. |
|
My Health Record |
My Health Record is an online summary of an individual's key health information in Australia such as medical conditions, medications, allergies, test results, and immunisation history. Participation in My Health Record is voluntary, and individuals can choose to opt-out if desired |