Can your practice extend business hours during a nearby disaster, and see new patients affected by the emergency?
'We Are Open' is a register of general practices, Aboriginal Medical Services and pharmacies, located throughout South Western Sydney, who have nominated to consider extending opening hours at short notice in the event of a disaster.
When disaster strikes
- Once a disaster situation is determined, SWSPHN calls nearby We Are Open practices and pharmacies to confirm their ability to extend opening hours
- SWSPHN then contacts all general practices and pharmacies in the disaster-affected area to ascertain the impact on the primary care sector
- If needed, SWSPHN will advise essential services and community of your extended opening hours. This includes evacuation centres, emergency departments, and other people or groups involved in the relief effort
As part of this initiative, your practice would be willing to see new patients affected by the emergency.
Residential Aged Care Home preparedness
During disaster senior members of our community are often the most vulnerable. They can easily become isolated and may not have the means or the resources to access essential services such as healthcare.
As part of We Are Open, SWSPHN will coordinate to ensure Residential Aged Care Homes (RACHs) are connected to GPs. Any RACH affected by a disaster can contact SWSPHN if they need support with finding GP care.
GPs can volunteer to visit RACHs affected by a disaster if the GP who regularly visits is also affected by the disaster.
Add your practice to the We Are Open register
We Are Open
Lodge your interest to become part of the We Are Open network to provide local support in a natural disaster.
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Find out more and get involved
To find out more about any of these initiatives, or to book a consultation to discuss emergency planning for your practice, contact Alyssa Horgan, SWSPHN Priority Populations Program Advisor.
Web: swsphn.com.au/disaster-preparedness
Email: alyssa.horgan@swsphn.com.au
Phone: 4632 3088