Rheumatic Heart Disease

Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS) delivers the NACCHO Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Program to support the prevention, early detection and ongoing management of ARF and RHD across the Western Desert region.

ARF and RHD disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote communities. Through school-based education programs, community events and health promotion activities, the program helps raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of ARF and RHD, the connection to Strep A infections, and the importance of good personal hygiene and environmental health.

The program also provides individual and family-based support through patient education, diagnosis and treatment support. The RHD Program Coordinator works closely with PAMS clinical and community program teams to help ensure clients receive holistic, culturally appropriate care and support throughout their treatment journey.

Several health professionals interacting with a group of aboriginal children.

Your Health Journey

1. Learn About RHD

Understand what rheumatic fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease are, including the signs, symptoms and importance of early treatment.

2. Access Screening & Assessment

Speak with your local clinic if you have concerns about rheumatic fever, sore throats, skin sores or heart health.

3. Receive Ongoing Support

Our team can provide education, treatment journey support and help coordinate care with your healthcare providers.

4. Stay Healthy for the Future

Regular follow-up appointments and ongoing treatment can help prevent complications and support long-term heart health.

How Can We Help?

Patient education and treatment journey support
Diagnosis and treatment support
Environmental Health referrals
School-based health promotion activities
Community-wide health promotion events
ARF and RHD awareness education
Strep A education and prevention support
Skin and health check promotion activities
Support for clients and families in remote communities
Coordination of culturally appropriate care and support

Supporting Heart Health in Our Communities

The PAMS RHD Program works across Newman and remote communities throughout the Western Desert region to raise awareness of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD).

Through community education, health promotion activities and family support, we help people understand the importance of prevention, early treatment and ongoing care.

The PAMS RHD Program Coordinator with community members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF)?

Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) is a serious illness that can develop after untreated Strep A infections, such as sore throats or skin sores. Repeated episodes of ARF can lead to Rheumatic Heart Disease.

What is Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)?

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) occurs when Acute Rheumatic Fever causes permanent damage to the heart valves. Early treatment and ongoing care can help reduce complications.

Who can access the RHD Program?

The program supports individuals, families and communities across the Western Desert region through education, prevention initiatives and client support services.

How can RHD be prevented?

Early treatment of Strep A infections, maintaining good personal hygiene and healthy living environments, and accessing regular healthcare can help prevent ARF and RHD.

What support is available if I have ARF or RHD?

The RHD Program can provide education, treatment journey support, Environmental Health referrals and assistance accessing ongoing healthcare services.

Graphic showing the signs of Strep A infection.

Know The Signs

Many cases of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) can be prevented through the early treatment of Strep A infections, including sore throats and skin sores.

Learning the signs and symptoms of Strep A infections, maintaining good personal hygiene and accessing healthcare early can help protect individuals, families and communities from ARF and RHD.

How can we help you today?...