WHAT DOES THE REFUGEE HEALTH NURSE (RHN) DO?
In partnership with you and your Doctor, the Refugee Health Nurse complements and works to create a healthy and happy environment for you as an individual, your family and any groups that you may belong to.

WHAT KIND OF SERVICES DOES THE CHN PROVIDE?
The Refugee Health Nurse assists with health screening / assessments and with you develop a health plan to access health services that you require to improve your and your family’s health and well-being. With your consent, she is able to set up the necessary appointments with both the doctors and other health service providers in your local area. The Refugee Health Nurse can also refer you to other agencies and community groups that may be able to help you and / or your family. 

HOW IS THIS DONE?
A general assessment done by the Refugee Health Nurse. This is followed by a discussion with you regarding your individual needs. With your consent a referral is made to the most appropriate Health Service Provider and / or other Community based agency that maybe of assistance to you.

MORE SPECIFICALLY SOME OF THE PROGRAMS / SERVICES OFFERED BY THE RHN ARE:

• Health Screening / Assessment by the General Practitioner.
• Access to other Health Related investigations like X rays, and Blood Tests.
• Testing for your immunity to Tuberculosis (TB)
• Access to Hospital (Acute) based services.
• Access to other DGCH Services and Programs.
• Access to DGCHS Immunisation Program.
• Access to DGCHS Women’s Health Clinic.
• Information / Education on your personal health management.
• Access to information on Vitamin D deficiency.
• Referral to other local community based services like Engish Language Schools, Migrant Agents, Housing Services, etc.
• Referral to Local Community Based Social Recreational Activities and Groups.

DO YOU HAVE TO WAIT FOR THIS SERVICE?
No, but you may have to wait for the service that you maybe referred to depending on the initial assessments.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE TO THE RHN SERVICES?
Refugee Health Nursing Service is available to anyone who is newly arrived, from a refugee background who has been in Australia for less than 5 years and who works, lives and / or studies in the Cities of Moonee Valley &Melbourne.

HOW CAN YOU GET TO SEE A RNH?
Referrals can be made by a phone call or fax to the DGCHS Refugee Health Nurse or e-referral via the Intake Worker by:

• Self.
• Family & Friends
• Local Doctors.
• Other Community Based Services
• Professionals.

HOME VISITS
If you cannot get to the Health Centre to see the RHN, a home visit can be arranged at a time that is convenient for you and/or your family. If a referral to other services is required this will be discussed and organised with your consent after the initial assessment.