World Obesity Day 2026: A Call to Action for Western Sydney
Western Sydney continues to face some of the highest rates of overweight and obesity in Australia, with half of the population above a healthy weight and at risk of chronic disease. Western Sydney residents are twice as likely to develop diabetes compared to those living in Sydney’s Eastern or Northern suburbs—impacting especially Aboriginal, Torres Strait […]
Genomics Hub Helps GPs with Genetic Detection
Western Sydney GPs now have access to a new national learning hub designed to strengthen early recognition of genetic conditions in primary care. Funded by WentWest and developed in Western Sydney, the PRECISE Genomics in Primary Care Hub, delivered by Medcast, offers rapid, point‑of‑care education and practical tools tailored specifically for general practice. Genomics is […]
Supporting Your Patients During Ramadan
Ramadan is an important month of fasting, reflection and community for many patients across Western Sydney. With 10.7% of Western Sydney residents identifying as Muslim, Islam is the second‑largest religion in our region, meaning a significant number of patients will be observing Ramadan and may require tailored clinical support during this period (1). For GPs, Ramadan presents […]
Healthy Ageing in General Practice
Spotlight on Frailty Prevention Frailty affects up to one in four people aged 70 and over, increasing the risk of falls, functional decline, hospitalisation and reduced quality of life. Early detection and timely intervention can help older adults stay active, independent, and at home for longer. To support general practices and practice teams across Western […]
New Changes to Digital Health: Better and Faster Access (Share by Default)
Important updates are being made to the way health information is shared in Australia’s healthcare system. New laws were recently introduced which ensures more health information will be automatically uploaded and available sooner in My Health Record. This change will help patients and healthcare providers have quicker access to the latest information, so patients can […]
Celebrate, Nominate, Participate: Primary Health Care Nurses Day 2026
Primary Health Care Nurses Day (PHCND) on 4 February is an opportunity to highlight the incredible work nurses do for our communities. This day shines a light on the vital contributions of nurses working outside hospital settings, including aged care, general practice, community health, schools, custodial care and other primary health care environments. The 2026 theme, “Essential at Every Stage,” celebrates […]
Decommissioning of the NPS MedicineWise and Doctor’s Bag Mobile Applications
In January 2023, the MedicineWise (MWA) and Doctor’s Bag (DBA) mobile applications were transitioned from the former NPS MedicineWise to the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission). The Commission has conducted a review of both apps to assess: the uptake of the apps by consumers, carers and clinicians the utility […]
Nurse Re-entry Program – Supporting Nurses and Practices
The Nurse Re-entry Program is an Australian Government initiative supporting general practices to build their capability by hosting nurses in supervised placements. The program helps nurses who haven’t practised in the last 5-10 years to return to the workforce through paid, supervised placements in general practice. The program also supports nurse practitioners transitioning into general […]
Mental Health Support Guide Following the Bondi Beach Incident
Our hearts are with the families, friends, and community affected by the tragic events at Bondi Beach. WentWest extends our deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones and offers our unwavering support to everyone impacted. We understand that incidents like these can have far-reaching effects—emotional, psychological, and deeply personal—especially across Western Sydney’s diverse communities. […]
Urgent Care Continues to Grow in Western Sydney
WentWest is pleased to share that the Rouse Hill Medicare Urgent Care Clinic has officially opened this week as part of the Australian Government’s initiative to reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments. Located at Rouse Hill Town Medical & Dental Centre within Rouse Hill Town Centre, the service operates seven days a week with extended […]