National Guide to Preventive Healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People

The National Guide to Preventive Healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, 4th edition is a vital resource that supports health professionals in delivering culturally safe, evidence-based preventive care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Now in its 4th edition, the guide has been updated to reflect the latest research, best practices, and emerging health priorities, making it an indispensable tool for healthcare providers across Australia.

Developed in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals and communities, the guide provides clear and actionable recommendations on a wide range of preventive health topics, including chronic disease prevention, mental health, reproductive care, and more. It integrates cultural safety as a core element, helping health professionals deliver care that respects the values, traditions, and worldviews of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This approach fosters trust, improves patient-provider relationships, and leads to better health outcomes.

The guide is designed to be practical and accessible for health professionals, providing age-appropriate recommendations for preventive care, health assessments, screenings, immunisation schedules, and lifestyle interventions. These guidelines are straightforward to implement in clinical practice, helping healthcare providers offer high-quality, patient-centred care. Emphasising the need for collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families, and communities, the guide encourages shared decision making and community involvement in healthcare.

The release of the 4th edition marks an important step in improving healthcare outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, empowering health professionals to play an active role in closing the health gap. Through the adoption of these guidelines, healthcare providers can contribute to better health outcomes, ensuring culturally appropriate care that meets the unique needs of these communities. Ultimately, the guide is a catalyst for change, enabling health professionals to make a positive, lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.