Rheumatic Heart Disease

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is a serious illness caused by untreated and recurring infections of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) that result in damage to the heart valves, all stemming from untreated ‘Strep A’ infections. ARF and RHD disproportionately impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote locations which is why Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Services (PAMS) delivers the NACCHO ARF and RHD program to support our communities with the prevention and early detection of ARF and RHD.

The program aims to provide community wide education on the signs and symptoms of ARF and RHD and the importance of good environmental health and person hygiene. These health promotion activities include school-based educational programs and community events that allow community members to engage with skin and health checks, learn about Strep A and its links to ARF and RHD and receive merchandise and education on how to keep a healthy and hygienic home.

Alongside our community wide educational events we also offer individual and family-based support through:

  • Patient education
  • Diagnosis and treatment support
  • Environmental Health referrals

The RHD Program coordinator works closely with our clinical and community program teams to ensure patients are receiving a wholistic and culturally appropriate treatment plan.

What we offer

  • Patient education and treatment journey support
  • School-based and community-wide health promotion events
  • Support for clients and families in remote communities

Who can access this service?

All health promotion events for the ARF and RHD Program are open to all community members, school events are open to all kids as long as parental consent is given for participation. People experiencing signs and symptoms of ARF and RHD are able to ask for a referral to the RHD Coordinator during their regular GP visit.

Where services are provided

  • Newman
  • Jigalong
  • Punmu
  • Parnngurr
  • Kunawarritji

Service hours

Services are available Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Funding partner

This program is funded by NACCHO and the Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing under their ARF and RHD Program with additional support from BHP and The Snow Foundation.

How to access the RHD Program

To find out more or access support, please contact Tanya Christie on Tanya.Christie@puntukurnu.com