The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has officially launched their 2023-2028 First Nations Health and Wellness Framework.

Building upon previous cultural engagement activities, the framework sets expectations and standards for cultural competency for staff and stakeholders.

The framework also provides guidance on how to incorporate culturally responsive attitudes, values, and behaviours into everyday work.

HNECC PHN Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nankervis is dedicated to achieving improved access to primary healthcare and better health outcomes for First Nations communities.

“Primary health is a fundamental cornerstone of wellness and wellbeing for First Nations people which contributes greatly to achieving the Nation’s Closing the Gap targets,” Richard said.

“This is why the PHN is focused on First Nations work and improving health outcomes. This Health and Wellness Framework provides an impetus for change and dialogue about achieving improved health outcomes.”

The PHN recognises that the cultures of our First Nations peoples and communities are dynamic and have changed over time because of historical challenges and present circumstances.

First Nations communities and their cultures have survived and endured colonisation, dispossession, interruption of culture and intergenerational trauma.

The cumulative impacts of these traumas have resulted in a vast difference in the health and well-being of First Nations people compared to other populations in Australia.

The PHN will focus on four target areas over the next few years, strengthening the work of the PHN in improving access to primary care.

By committing to working together, PHN staff, Primary Care providers, families, and communities, will work to improve the health outcomes for First Nations People.

“As our PHN enters its eighth year, it is important for us to develop a revised First Nations Health and Wellness Framework to build on the foundations laid and connections established,” Richard said.

“We want to make sure our activities are more culturally responsive and meet the needs and expectations of our local First Nations people and families.

“Together, this document represents the combined voices of the PHN, our First Nations staff and our local communities.”

Aligning the Framework with the PHN’s core values has guided its vision and purpose.

The PHN aims to use the framework to navigate decisions around how First Nations peoples are supported, improve the delivery of health services and strengthen connection to communities.