General practice disaster response

Australia is prone to a variety of natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, severe storms and heatwaves which can have a profound impact on the population’s health and wellbeing. GPs and practice teams play a critical role in responding to emergencies and should consider a business continuity plan in the event of a disaster.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has developed the Managing emergencies in general practice guide to assist practices in preparing, responding and recovering during a disaster.

Tips for being prepared 

• Develop an up-to-date emergency response plan for your practice.
• Exercise your plan on a regular basis.
• Contact other practices in your local area and agree on how you can offer mutual support.
• Have a plan in place to send communications to patients about service disruptions or changes.

Refer to HealthPathways

• ACT & Southern NSW HealthPathways General Practice Management During a Disaster; log in with your username and password, or request access here.
• Illawarra Shoalhaven HealthPathways General Practice Management During a Disaster; log in with your username and password, or request access here.

The most effective support you can provide during a time of disaster is to consider extending practice opening hours to accommodate an increase in patient demand.