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ARF and RHD
Guidelines

Northern Territory RHD Control Program

The Northern Territory (NT) RHD Control Program aims to reduce the burden of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in the NT population. The objectives of the Program are to:

  • improve clinical care for people living with ARF and RHD including delivery of secondary prophylaxis antibiotics.
  • provide disease education and training for the health workforce, individuals, families, and communities.
  • maintain a dedicated statewide patient register and recall system for ARF and RHD.
  • provide data for national epidemiological reporting.

The Program collaborates with acute care facilities (including regional hospitals) and clinicians directly responsible for patient care. Activities are embedded within the NT Government primary health care system and staff work closely with regional and remote Aboriginal Health Services. The Program directly supports health services by providing a telephone support service, access to the ARF/RHD register, and reports from the register. Reciprocal relationships to support and improve patient care also exist with oral health, and cardiac and paediatric outreach services.  

Legislated notification of ARF and RHD

Medical Practitioners have a legal obligation to notify cases of ARF and RHD in the NT. For more information contact the Program on (08) 8922 8454.

Data protection

The release of clinical data from the register is governed by processes which protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals. Queries should be directed to NT Program Manager.

Resources

Contact

Top End Region

T: (08) 8922 8454
F: (08) 8922 8277
E: RHDDarwin.ths@nt.gov.au 

Central Australia Region

T: (08) 8951 6903
F: (08) 8951 7900
E: RHDAliceSprings.THS@nt.gov.au 


RHD Programs

Western Australia

Fact checked? 
Last updated 
15 December 2022