The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Health Assessment is available to:
a) Children between the ages of 0 and 14 years
b) Adults between the ages of 15 and 54 years
c) Older people over the age of 55 years
Each of these Health Assessments focusses on different important areas and have their own specific criteria.
These Health Assessments are performed in a culturally sensitive manner.
A Health Assessment is the assessment of your health and physical, psychological and social function, and consideration of whether preventive health care and education should be offered, to improve your health and physical, psychological and social function.
Every person is different, has a different history and different health challenges. The additional health and other challenges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face are also considered during this Health Assessment. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and your views and beliefs will be respected.
Who is eligible for this check?
All people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent are eligible for this assessment, once every 9 months.
What does the Health Assessment involve?
The Health Assessment will include the following:
- Information collection, including taking your history (medical history, family history, immunisaions, etc), and undertaking examinations or other tests as required
- Making an overall assessment including where there may be health risks/concerns
- Recommending interventions that are appropriate for the individual
- Providing advice and information that will benefit the individual.
You will be offered a copy of the assessment once it is complete.
In most cases, you will spend 30-45 minutes with the nurse, and then 15-30 minutes with your doctor. This allows the nurse and your doctor to have a better understanding of you and your health, and have time to address your concerns or answer your questions.
What happens after the health assessment?
After the assessment is complete, you will be offered a copy of the assessment, which includes the findings and recommendations. Further tests may be arranged and you will be given information or a plan regarding this. If you are due for immunisations, they may be able to be given on the day.