Primary Health Care Providers Recognised for Dedication During Flood Emergency

The recent severe flooding across parts of New South Wales — which tragically claimed four lives and left approximately 50,000 people isolated — once again demonstrated the extraordinary dedication of our region’s primary health care professionals.

Despite many facing emergencies in their own homes and communities, clinicians and practice teams continued to provide essential care to those in need. Their ability to respond with compassion and resilience during such a challenging time is deeply valued, and the PHN extends sincere thanks for their ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of their communities.

In support of these frontline efforts, the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) played a critical coordination role throughout the emergency. The PHN swiftly activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), launching a coordinated health response to maintain vital services and provide immediate assistance to affected health care providers across the Mid North Coast, Hunter, and North Coast regions.

Key response initiatives included:

• Daily welfare checks for primary care providers across impacted areas.

• Timely communication of warnings and available supports through direct messaging and a dedicated Live Updates News Page.

• Collaboration with key stakeholders, including NSW Health and the NSW Reconstruction Authority, through daily emergency response meetings.

• Hosting of a webinar for affected health professionals and practices, a collaboration with NSW Reconstruction Authority.

• Support for alternative service delivery, encouraging the use of Healthdirect and telehealth solutions.

Recognising the urgent need for accessible healthcare during the crisis, the PHN introduced the ‘We Are Open’ initiative to provide financial support for after-hours services in flood-affected areas. Six practices participated in this initiative.

A telehealth exemption was also activated, allowing residents in declared disaster zones (AGRN1212) to access Medicare-subsidised telehealth from any GP nationwide—without requiring an existing clinical relationship, ensuring uninterrupted care for isolated individuals.

To assist with recovery, the PHN provided Business Continuity Support Grants for eligible General Practices, Aboriginal Medical Services, Pharmacies, and Allied Health Providers forced to close due to the disaster. A total of 37 practices received this targeted support, aimed at addressing issues such as revenue loss, cold chain breaches, and business disruption.

The PHN also provided health professionals access to mental health support via its funded service ACESS EAP.

HNECC PHN Chief Executive Officer Richard Nankervis said the recent flooding emergency is just one of many challenges that highlight the extraordinary commitment of primary health care professionals across the region. “Time and again, in the face of crisis — whether bushfires, floods, or pandemics — our primary care clinicians have shown unwavering dedication to their communities. They lead with compassion, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility that does not falter, even under the most difficult circumstances.

“In the Manning region, many practices were significantly impacted by flooding and isolation, disrupting essential services. Yet, despite these hardships, teams worked tirelessly to restore care as quickly as possible, knowing how vital that care is to the health and wellbeing of their community.

“We acknowledge the stress and the suffering that these events bring — and we extend our heartfelt thanks to every health care worker who continues to show up, serve, and support our region with such commitment. Your efforts are deeply valued and profoundly appreciated.”

Gabby Clezy, PHN’s Executive Manager of Partnerships and Engagement and EOC lead said “Health services across the flood zone have faced immense operational challenges — from clinic closures and limited access to medical supplies, to difficulties for both patients and staff in reaching care. Throughout this crisis, the PHN’s unwavering support has been critical in sustaining service delivery. Their commitment to telehealth and alternative care pathways has ensured that communities continue to receive the care they need, even under the most difficult circumstances.”

Planning is underway to support longer-term service restoration and community health recovery.

Media enquiries, please contact:
Rebecca Brennan, Communications and Public Relations Manager
Hunter New England and Central Coast PHN
Email: [email protected]