Health

“Concerning” spike in local gastro cases

The number of rotaviruses cases, the virus that causes gastro in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is five times higher than previous years.

Opposition seeks bipartisan approach after Women’s Health Centre commitment

NSW Labor says it is putting politics to the side and calling for bipartisan support to make sure that women’s health is made a priority.

Nepean Private Hospital, HCF fail to reach new funding agreement

A breakdown of negotiations between a major health insurer and healthcare provider means that some Penrith patients will face higher out-of-pocket expenses from February next year.

Lung cancer remains biggest cancer killer in local district

A report has shown that an estimated 2,369 people in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District will be told they have cancer this year, and 713 people will lose their lives to the disease in 2022.

Mask up when gardening, warns nSW Health

Home gardeners are encouraged to wear a face mask and gloves while handling potting mix and compost, and to wash their hands thoroughly, to avoid contracting Legionnaires’ disease.

Program at Nepean Hospital provides smoother experience for new mums

A new pilot program running at Nepean Hospital will provide a familiar face throughout women’s pregnancies to achieve the best outcomes for mums and babies.

New mental health support service opens in Penrith

Locals can now access expanded mental heath support with the launch of a new service in Penrith, Safe Haven.

Under-funded and misunderstood: Why lung cancer patients are diagnosed too late

Despite being the fifth most common cancer diagnosed in Australia, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, and is in the top four leading causes of death in Australia for both males and females.

More needs to be done to reduce Australia’s frightening suicide rate

Ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on Sunday, September 10, a St Marys psychologist wants to start honest conversations to spark changes.

Free program in Penrith for chronic pain sufferers

Through a partnership between OnePointHealth and Wentworth Healthcare, Penrith residents will be able to access a series of six-week chronic pain management programs, all for free.

New private hospital a step closer to reality

A new private hospital that will cater to Penrith’s growing health needs is on track to open its doors in February next year.

NSW Health issues meningococcal warning

NSW Health is urging parents and young people to be alert to the symptoms of meningococcal disease and act immediately if they appear.

How Nepean Hospital is at the forefront of tackling ‘long COVID’

Though it seems the height of the COVID pandemic is behind us, ‘long COVID’ has become an ongoing battle for many.

Just 28.1 per cent of locals have had their free flu jab

Less than a third of Penrith residents have received the flu jab despite this winter’s spike in illness.

Flu season to peak within weeks, as doctors urge extra precautions

While the height of the COVID-19 pandemic is seemingly over, the common cold and influenza are hitting people hard.

Palliative care unit confirmed for Nepean Hospital

the NSW Government has confirmed it will build a dedicated palliative care unit at Nepean Hospital.

Men urged to heed prostate cancer message

Having being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017, Cranebrook resident Clayton Briggs’ ongoing battle with the disease has prompted him to encourage others to get tested.

NSW Government announces new IVF rebate

In an Australian first, women in NSW undergoing IVF and accessing other assisted reproductive treatments (ART) will be given a cash rebate of up to $2,000 to reduce treatment costs as part of the NSW Government’s 2022-23 Budget.

$50 million Nepean Health Hub officially opens its doors

The Nepean Health Hub has officially opened its doors at Kingswood with 90 per cent of its space committed.

Locals urged to get their blood pressure checked

Australians are being urged to get their blood pressure checked to reduce their risk of stroke.