A new free program is helping people in South Eastern New South Wales look after their heart health before problems start.
The program is called Healthy Hearts Healthy Minds, and it’s being run by nurses from Silverchain together with COORDINARE, the local Primary Health Network.
It offers free heart health checks, advice, and follow-up support – all designed to help people stay healthy and avoid serious heart problems later on.
Why heart health matters
Heart disease is one of the main causes of death in Australia. In South Eastern NSW alone, there were more than 1,500 hospital stays because of heart disease in one year.
Many people, especially new migrants, go to the doctor only when they feel sick. But this program helps people get checked before symptoms appear.
“We want people to take care of their health early,” said Tamra Bridges from Silverchain. “By checking risks sooner, we can help prevent serious illness later.”
How the program works
If your doctor is part of the program, they can refer you to Healthy Hearts Healthy Minds.
Here’s what will happen:
- A nurse will check your heart health using a Heart Health Check Toolkit.
- You’ll receive a personal health plan to lower your risk of heart disease.
- The nurse can connect you to dietitians, exercise experts, or local walking groups.
- You can get ongoing coaching and follow-up support.
Appointments are available in person or through telehealth, so you can join even if you live far from the city.
Where you can join
You can ask your doctor if their clinic is part of the program. Participating clinics include:
- Braidwood Medical Centre
- Gwynneville Medical Practice
- Windang Family Medical Centre
- Corrimal Family Medical
- Kiama Doctors
- Mulwaree Doctors
- Sussex Doctors
- Vincentia Bay Medical
- Wollongong Doctors
A GP referral is needed to join.
Why this is good news for migrants
For many migrants, understanding Australia’s health system can be confusing. Programs like this make it easier to learn how preventive health works. It’s also free, and nurses can help you find other community supports if needed.
It’s a reminder that in Australia, good health care isn’t just about treatment – it’s also about prevention and staying well.
More information
The Healthy Hearts Healthy Minds program is funded by the Australian Government through COORDINARE. You can learn more by asking your local GP or visiting www.silverchain.org.au.
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