The heroic clinicians have ventured into bushfire affected towns to provide medical assistance.
The support offered by WSLHD is part of a state-wide response co-ordinated by the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre and the NSW Health Emergency Management Unit, which has deployed Australian Medical Assistance Teams (AUSMAT) including doctors, nurses, paramedics, radiographers, mental health clinicians and pharmacists to disaster zones.
WSLHD disaster manager Caren Friend played a key role with the co-ordination of local clinicians to visit Batemans Bay.
“Three WSLHD emergency department clinicians are providing support in Batemans Bay and are fully prepared to handle any difficult situations,” Ms Friend said.
“We also have six mental health clinicians on the way to provide counselling and support for families, carers and anyone who needs their help.
“I’m proud to be associated with AUSMAT and WSLHD who are ensuring trained experts can help people whose lives have been traumatised by these fierce fires.”
WSLHD acting chief executive Emma McCahon thanked all WSLHD employees who have volunteered their time to support the fires since the start of the bushfire season.
“Thank you to our staff who have contributed in any way to the community response to the bushfire emergency,” she said.
“I know we have staff who have supported the Rural Fire Service on the ground and others who are organising collections to support the community.
“It is heart-warming to see the WSLHD community supporting fellow Aussies who need our help right now.”
For community members wishing to support communities affected by the fires, consider making a monetary donation to the Rural Fire Service or the Australian Red Cross bushfire appeals.
