WA Rheumatic Heart Disease Register
The WA Rheumatic Heart Disease Register (the WA RHD Register) is a confidential database that collects information on people with acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in WA.
The register collects and records different information, including:
- copies of tests and scans (for example, echocardiogram)
- history of penicillin injections
- letters from specialists providing expert opinion on treatment and progress
- other information related to a person’s ARF or RHD history.
The WA RHD Register was established in 2009. RHD registers now operate in New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.
Why do we have the WA RHD Register?
Research shows some of the highest rates of ARF and RHD in the world are found in Aboriginal populations living in rural and remote parts of Australia, particularly across the central and northern regions of the country.
The first rheumatic heart disease register (RHD) in Australia was established in 1997 in the Northern Territory and was effective in reducing the recurrence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF).
Register based RHD programs have shown that an organised approach to monitoring people with ARF and RHD is the most efficient way to reduce the effect of these illnesses and prevent long-term heart damage.
The WA RHD Register provides data for planning, monitoring and evaluating the program.
The data helps to improve our understanding of ARF and RHD, its treatment and health outcomes for people with or at risk of developing RHD.
How does the WA RHD Register help me?
The WA RHD Register helps to improve your follow up care, which can mean better health outcomes for you.
The register will help your doctor or healthcare service by reminding them of all appointments that you need to attend, including appointments for treatments, tests and specialist review. This includes appointments with dentists.
This information is available for you to share with other healthcare providers if you need to visit a different health site in WA or go interstate.
The WA RHD Register plays an important role in providing education to patients and family members with ARF and RHD and healthcare professionals through local health care service providers.
What information is collected?
The register collects and records all information related to your diagnosis and management of ARF and RHD. This includes:
- name
- date of birth
- address
- Medicare number
- healthcare service contact details
- test results
- dates you receive penicillin injections
- letters from specialist doctors
- echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) results.
Where to get help
- WA Rheumatic Heart Disease Register and Control Program
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Phone: 1300 622 745 (local call rates from land line only)
Email: rhd.register@health.wa.gov.au
Postal address: PO Box 6680, East Perth Business Centre WA 6892
Last reviewed: 14-12-2018
Acknowledgements
WA Rheumatic Heart Disease Register and Control Program
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.