our VISION
A community-led approach to ending RHD in AustraliaHow do we get there?
Ending rheumatic heart disease requires a collaborative, comprehensive approach to research aimed at preventing Strep A infection in the first place, and providing better treatment for those already living with the disease. The RHD Endgame Strategy has 5 key recommendations to achieve this.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander leadership
Support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led National Implementation Unit to coordinate RHD elimination efforts across Australia.
We can address the root environmental and social causes of RHD by working with government, delivering technical support to stakeholders, supporting and funding communities to deliver culturally appropriate strategies for prevention and treatment, develop resources and guidelines for best practice, setting research priorities and translation of evidence.
Community-based programs
Work with communities to develop their own programs to eliminate RHD.
We’re working in partnership with communities to implement culturally relevant RHD elimination activities aligned to local priorities.
Healthy environments
Tackle the root causes of RHD by guaranteeing communities have access to healthy housing and built environments.
This involves embedding environmental health in community-based health care, ensuring access to essential hygiene infrastructure to achieve healthy living practices and implementing housing strategies aimed at reducing over-crowding and improve living conditions.
Early prevention
Assist in the establishment of a comprehensive skin and throat program for high-risk communities.
We’re implementing comprehensive and place-based Strep A outreach, improving diagnosis of Strep A skin and throat infection and exploring strategies to increase accessibility to healthcare for people most at risk.
Care and support
Improve the health and wellbeing of those living with ARF and RHD.
By working together, we can improve the quality of life and ensure culturally safe healthcare for those impacted by ARF and RHD.
Learn more about the Rheumatic Heart Disease Endgame Strategy by watching the videos below.