Professional Task: Health Needs Assessment

Introduction

The characteristics of the Nepean Blue Mountains region are examined in this report, along with its unique demographic, population trends, and communal characteristics. It explores the intricate relationships between established health needs, such as mental well-being, long-term conditions including heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and maternal health. These health requirements demonstrate the region's commitment to fostering the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of its citizens.

The population and region of focus

The Nepean Blue Mountains region is situated in New South Wales, Australia. Blue Mountains National Park and the Nepean River are two of the region's many natural wonders. It is a diversified and lovely location (Australian National Audit Office, 2020). The Nepean Blue Mountains region has a diverse population that varies depending on where you are in the area. Penrith and other major population areas are home to a diverse range of people, including pensioners, young professionals, and families.

Communities in the Nepean Blue Mountains region are distinguished by their strong sense of self, active participation in the region, and reverence for the natural world. Numerous different cultures may be found in the area, which is representative of Australia's multiculturalism. (Giuntoli et al. 2019). The proximity to natural attractions like the Blue Mountains and the Nepean River encourages an outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, and water sports are popular.

Geographically diversified, NBM is isolated, and in certain areas has limited access to public transportation and health care. By 2041, there will be 452,747 people living in the region, up from the present 385,944 residents. Compared to the state average of 3.4% for NSW, this population's 4.7% of people are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Connolly et al. 2020). The percentage of people 65 and over is 15.86%, and by 2041, it is predicted to increase to 22.33%. The need for primary care services in the NBM region will be greatly impacted by the anticipated rise in population.

Significant cultural diversity is also present in the NBM region, especially in the Penrith LGA. As of 2021, 17.6% of people in the Penrith LGA spoke a language other than English at home, and 23.3% of people were foreign-born (Andrikopoulos and Johnson, 2020). Low and inadequate health literacy, alcohol and drug abuse, problem gambling, rising rates of obesity and chronic illness, and limited access to interpreting services are some of the main problems facing NBM CALD populations.

Figure 1: Projected population grown in Nepean Blue Mountains by Local Government area, 2021-2041

The key demographic factors of a region refer to the statistical characteristics that describe its population. These factors provide insights into the composition, distribution, and characteristics of the people who live in that region. The total number of people living in the region and how that population has changed over time due to factors like births, deaths, and migration. The proportion of the population in various age groups (e.g., children, working-age adults, seniors) (Britt et al. 2015). This can impact healthcare needs, education services, and workforce dynamics. The range of ethnic backgrounds and cultures represented in the region. This can influence cultural events, festivals, and the need for multilingual services.

The Health Needs

The increasing number of patients presenting to hospitals with chronic disorders and the increasing frequency of chronic conditions have an impact on the integration and coordination of care between primary and secondary services, which remains a major area for improvement within the NBM region. In Australia, the prevalence of chronic illnesses is a major factor in early death and morbidity.

Maternal Health

Maternal health refers to the health and well-being of pregnant women and new mothers. It is advised to ensure that pregnant women have access to regular prenatal check-ups, screenings, and guidance on healthy pregnancy habits (Jawad et al. 2021). women should have access to skilled healthcare professionals during childbirth and postpartum, reducing maternal mortality and complications.

Chronic disease (CVD and T2D)

Addressing chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes often involves promoting awareness of risk factors for CVD and type 2 diabetes, such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, smoking, and obesity (Britt et al. 2015). Chronic diseases also required regular screenings to identify individuals at risk or in the early stages of these conditions, allowing for timely intervention.

Mental Health

The rapid urbanization and associated lifestyle shifts, along with the potential for added stress, may contribute to rising mental health concerns (Andrikopoulos and Johnson, 2020). Diverse age groups intersecting, mental health concerns, from anxiety to more intricate conditions, could arise. The ephemeral population, composed of tourists and temporary workers, might intensify feelings of loneliness, and amplify mental health concerns.

The Service Needs

• Healthcare Services:

  Access to quality healthcare services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and clinics, to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the population.

• Maternal and Child Health Services:

  Programs and resources to support expectant mothers, newborns, and young children, including prenatal care, maternal health education, and early childhood interventions.

• Access to Mental Health Services:

  Helplines, counselling services, and mental health specialists are available to address mental health issues and offer support to people and families.

• Chronic disease management service:

  These services aim to prevent and control long-term illnesses such as cardiovascular disease through education, lifestyle, and monitoring.

• Aged care services:

  These services include home care, assisted living, facilities, and social services to promote good health for elder people.

Conclusions and Key Messages

In Australia's New South Wales, the Nepean Blue Mountains neighbourhood is a stunning and bustling area. Mixing urban, suburban, and rural living, the town offers a beautiful landscape, a diversified population, and distinctive cultural features. The region's attention to the well-being of its citizens is seen in the recognized health requirements. Three crucial areas that the region needs to focus on are mental health, chronic illnesses like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and maternity health. Adequate management of chronic illnesses, provision of comprehensive mental health care, and prioritization of the health of pregnant women are critical to ensuring a population that is both alive and well. A variety of services are required by the region to meet these health needs. The manner the region provides services demonstrates its commitment to enhancing health outcomes, promoting region, and attending to the various needs of its people.