Recent heatwaves and bushfire activity, remind us what we all know, disaster comes unexpectedly, whether fire, flood, power outage or pandemic regional NSW needs to be prepared to ensure general practice can support communities when they need it most.
Having a current, practical emergency response plan helps practices protect patients, staff and continuity of care when these events occur and it’s also a requirement for RACGP accreditation.
To support practices, Western NSW PHN subsidises access to the Emergency Response Planning Tool (ERPT) the RACGP’s preferred digital tool for developing and maintaining an accreditation‑ready disaster and emergency response plan. The ERPT guides practices through risk identification, response actions and recovery considerations, and allows plans to be easily reviewed, updated and published.
HealthPathways and HealthPoint resources can also be used alongside the ERPT to add local service context and referral information where relevant.
What action should your practice take now?
- Already have a published emergency plan?
This is a great time to review and update it to make sure you’re ready for whatever comes next. - Part‑way through developing your plan?
The ERPT makes it an easy win to finalise, publish and meet RACGP requirements. - Not sure where to start, or want to improve what you have?
Support is available. Practices are welcome to get in touch for a conversation about disaster and emergency planning, ERPT access or next steps.
Get support
You can contact:
- Claire Scott, Manager, Disaster & Emergency Coordination (disastermanagement@wnswphn.org.au)
- Your usual Practice Development Team contact at the PHN
The PHN can assist with ERPT access, practical planning advice and guidance tailored to your practice and local risks.
