Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) Health

The "Closing the Gap" scheme in healthcare aims to reduce Indigenous health disparities in Australia through improved access to culturally sensitive healthcare, preventive services, chronic disease management, maternal and child health support, mental health services, and health education. Collaboration and partnerships are key to achieving better health outcomes for Indigenous communities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) Health Checks

Who can get an ATSI health check?

If you identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person and have a Medicare card, you can get a FREE health check every year. ATSI health checks are available for adults and children of all ages.

What happens at an ATSI health check?

You will see the Practice Nurse followed by your GP. Your check will depend on your age and circumstances, but your health professional might:

·         check your blood pressure

·         check blood sugar levels

·         measure your height and weight

·         do a blood test

·         do a urine test

·         ask about the health of your family

·         talk to you about your health priorities and goals

·         do other tests, as needed.

Remember that it’s your check, so tell your GP about any worries you have. Your doctor will let you know if they recommend any follow-up care to look after your health, and where you need to go for that care. They might suggest services to help you with your: heart, vision, hearing, movement or mental health.

How can an ATSI health check benefit me?

·         Your GP can refer you for up to 5 Medicare rebated Allied Health visits a year e.g. Physio, Dietitian.  You can nominate who you want the visits for and how many of those 5 visits is allocated to each provider.  Your out of pocket cost is however much on top of the Medicare rebate the provider charges. Some providers will bulk bill.

·         It can help identify whether you’re at risk of illnesses or chronic conditions. It’s much easier to prevent these than to treat them, so catching them early can make a big difference.

·         If you have a chronic condition, your health check can help make sure you are getting the medication and care you need.

·         You can ask your GP about anything you’re worried about or need help with.

·         A health check supports you to take charge of your health and wellbeing to improve or maintain your health and live well.

Please talk to reception and book in with your GP if you would like an ATSI health check