HealthLink SecureIT is gaining huge traction with close to 1,000 sites around the country now using it.

The service gives health professionals easy and secure access to the private Connected Health network.

HealthLink has been a leading provider of access to Connected Health since its inception in 2005.

Unlike other Connected Health service providers, HealthLink offers three SecureIT options; Gateway (on premises firewall device), HealthLink SecureIT Cloud (enables access from Could-based systems) and Enterprise (rack-mounted for large on-premises installations).

 

Cyber security top of mind

HealthLink client manager Mike Harvey says cyber security is an increasing concern for the health sector, as evidenced by recent cyber attacks.

“Security is of utmost importance to the health sector and HealthLink SecureIT adds a crucial layer of protection against the ongoing threat of cyber-attacks,” Mike says.

“HealthLink’s SonicWall firewall solution delivers superior protection and is at the forefront of security technology.”

Customer support is available from HealthLink’s local team in Newmarket in Auckland.

“SecureIT is incredibly reliable. However, if support is needed then expert assistance is just a phone call away.”

 

Reliable and cost-effective

Mike says GPs, and more recently pharmacies, are benefitting hugely from SecureIT because of its reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Key features include meeting key health sector security standards, integration with other HealthLink services, automatic updating of virus protection software and flexible configuration to meet an organisation’s unique requirements.

“SecureIT is a premium, fully managed solution designed for healthcare organisations wanting to comprehensively utilise internet access in a secure and reliable manner and its success is being reflected in the uptake of users that we are seeing.”

 

For more information about HealthLink SecureIT, phone 0800 288 887, visit HealthLink’s website or email [email protected].

The Cannabis Clinic opened in 2018 in Takapuna on Auckland’s North Shore and has already seen more than 10,000 Kiwis from around the country.

eReferrals can now be made to the Cannabis Clinic using CareSelect.

Cannabis Clinic founder Dr Waseem Alzaher says demand is growing for medicinal cannabis, which is used to assist with mild to severe health conditions.

“We see a wide range of people from kids to adults, professionals, people at the end of their life and everyone in between and we deal with a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to serious,” Waseem says.

“But the most common ailments we assist with are pain, anxiety and sleep problems like insomnia.”

The clinic employs 14 doctors and four nurses and consultations can be carried out face to face or online.

 

Taking the load off GPs

While GPs can prescribe medicinal cannabis, Waseem says the Cannabis Clinic has the expertise, resources and time to ensure patients are getting the best possible treatment plan and follow up care.

“If GPs refer patients through to us, it takes some of the potential pressure off GPs.”

Waseem says there is also a lot of paperwork for GPs, which the Cannabis Clinic takes care of when patients are referred to them.

“We are really lightening the load for GPs, otherwise it would be a huge time investment for a small number of patients.”

Waseem says some GPs may not know enough about medicinal cannabis to prescribe it with confidence.

“Or if a GP has a patient for whom pharmaceuticals aren’t having a positive effect, the patient is already self-medicating with cannabis, or they are having trouble building a trusting relationship with their patient, then the Cannabis Clinic is a good option.”

 

Incredible success stories

Waseem says the clinic has seen some amazing results and success stories.

“While medicinal cannabis is not for everyone and we don’t prescribe it to everyone, we’ve had some incredible success stories where ordinary people’s lives have been drastically improved and transformed.”

He says the Cannabis Clinic and its dedicated staff put a lot of energy and care into providing the service.

“If it’s possible to support a loved one with symptoms and make their life better with a safe and effective plant-based medicine, then that’s enough to say we are doing the right thing.”

The Cannabis Clinic is planning on opening new clinics in Christchurch and Nelson soon.

“We are looking for new doctors to meet the growing demand.”

 

How to refer to the Cannabis Clinic:

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• use the CareSelect search bar, type “Cannabis Clinic”
• click “Compose Referral”.

ADT Security’s NevaAlone Medical Alarm helps users lead a safer and more independent lifestyle.

Produced by ADT Security, the medical alarm features a HELP button that is connected to ADT’s highly trained NevaAlone support team who are available 24/7, 365 days a year should the user need emergency assistance or require an ADT Security Guard to conduct a security check around their property.

E-Referrals can be made to NevaAlone Medical Alarms using CareSelect.

ADT Security third party relationship manager Darlene Sanderson says NevaAlone Medical Alarms, which are available nationwide, give peace of mind to users and family members, who can rest assured that help is immediately accessible.

“People who are elderly, live alone, have a medical condition or disability, or are prone to falls will feel so much safer knowing that help is available by simply pressing a button,” Darlene says.

“The alarm can be used 24/7, creating a safety net for users looking to maintain their independence. It also gives family members confidence that their loved ones have help readily available in case of an emergency.”

Help dispatched quickly

The alarm can be worn as a pendant or wristwatch or can be activated by pressing a button on the alarm unit. The alarm signal works via a landline or cellular network and operates within range from anywhere in or around the house.

Once the button is pressed, the person is immediately connected to the ADT call centre, where a trained professional will assess the situation, dispatching help if required. Family members are also notified.

A GPS alarm is a private offering that works when the user leaves the house. If they have a fall while wearing the alarm, the device’s fall detection feature will automatically notify the call centre who can arrange for medical assistance.

“The GPS alarm can not only be used at home, but also when the user is away. For example, if they take the dog for a walk, ADT can locate them if they need assistance.”

Alarms to suit different needs

ADT Security is a Ministry of Social Development (MSD) accredited medical alarm provider. If a person qualifies, the NevaAlone Medical Alarm can be partly or fully funded through the Work and Income (WINZ) Disability Allowance.

A free lock box is installed outside the user’s home so paramedics can enter the house in an emergency; the cost of an ambulance callout is also covered for all users.

Darlene says different alarm products are recommended depending on each person’s personal situation and circumstances.

“ADT undertakes an in-home demonstration and a thorough needs analysis to determine which product is best for each individual.”

Darlene notes that ADT’s trained professionals can even identify if a person is feeling lonely or isolated if they are activating the alarm to simply have a chat with call centre staff.

“Sometimes a user just needs assurance or is looking to talk to someone because they are feeling lonely. If it’s a regular occurrence, we will reach out to local community organisations to see if they can help.”

How to refer to NevaAlone Medical Alarms:

• Open the patient record
• Select the HealthLink icon
• Use the CareSelect search bar, type “NevaAlone Medical Alarms”
• Click “Compose Referral”.

No one should have to leave behind the home they love, their belongings and a lifetime of memories just because they need extra care.

Private Care NZ, part of the New Zealand Health Group, offers a range of 24/7 services nationwide to support anyone with health and wellness needs to affordably stay in their own home for longer.

Private Care NZ can provide home help, palliative care, personal care, medication management, dementia care, respite care, companionship and even postnatal home support for new families.

E-Referrals can now be made to Private Care NZ using HealthLink’s CareSelect service, making it easier for GPs to make a referral and for patients to receive the care they need.

New Zealand Health Group Managing Director Josephine Gagan says it’s important people have an option to stay in their own home if they wish to.

“Often, people really love their own home, have lots of special memories and don’t want to move out. Private Care NZ enables them to receive the support they need without having to move into a new and unfamiliar environment,” she says.

“We’ve had families say that they couldn’t have kept their loved ones at home without our extra support.”

High standard of care 

Josephine says Private Care NZ’s carers and registered nurses are all highly trained and can cater to a patient’s specific needs and preferences.

“Because Private Care NZ is part of the largest homecare group, patients can access services that some smaller operators might not have. We can pull in extra resources, and our pool of carers is much larger.”

Being privately funded means there are no long waiting lists. Their team makes every day easier for their patients by focusing on their needs and preferences, adapting to changes, and working closely with families to create a circle of care.

Private Care NZ also sells affordable, high-quality homecare products to make every day easier for people in their own homes.

How to refer to Private Care NZ:  

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• use the CareSelect search bar, and type “Private Care NZ”
• click “Compose Referral”.

Locally owned and operated Onsite Ultrasound has been providing high-quality ultrasound services for people in Hawke’s Bay for 14 years.

E-Referrals can now be made to Onsite Ultrasound using CareSelect.

Onsite Ultrasound practice manager Kelly Fraser says the new tailor-made e-Referral form will help make the pathway easier for doctors to refer patients.

“The e-Referral form is quick and easy to use, saves time and is way more secure compared to faxing, emailing, phoning or handing a patient a paper referral,” she says.

“E-Referrals are definitely the way forward.”

Onsite Ultrasound has a team of 10 people and operates out of two sites – one in Napier and one in Hastings.

“We provide high-quality ultrasound services using the latest technology and equipment,” Kelly says.

Services on offer include pregnancy, general abdominal, small parts, pelvic, vascular, obstetric and musculoskeletal scans. Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections are also available.

Kelly says customer service is a big focus for the small, friendly team.

“Our team provides high-quality imaging alongside great customer service with friendly faces every step of the way.”

 

Urgent reports available

Kelly says urgent reports are available within the hour if required.

“Our general wait times for scans is minimal and we also put aside appointments every day for urgent cases should they arise,” she says.

“We also get our reports out as soon as possible after a scan has been completed.”

Free ACC scans are also available for patients who qualify (a surcharge applies for radiologist procedures).

“We’ve had lots of positive feedback over the years and pride ourselves on the high-quality service we provide and our friendly team.”

 

How to refer to Onsite Ultrasound:

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• use the CareSelect search bar, type “Onsite Ultrasound”
• click “Compose Referral”.

Triton Hearing’s new ground-breaking store in the Auckland suburb of Newmarket is the first of its kind to open in the Southern Hemisphere.

Triton World of Hearing offers a completely new interactive experience when it comes to hearing checks and high-tech solutions.

E-Referrals can now be made to Triton World of Hearing using HealthLink’s CareSelect service.

Visitors to the new store use interactive screens to learn about the latest innovations in hearing technology. A team of expert audiologists is also on hand to help and offer advice.

The store, which opened in February, compliments Triton Hearing’s existing clinics around New Zealand, including its nine across Auckland.

Triton Hearing’s Audiology and Innovation Head Craig Lett says the new store offers a “surround sound experience” for people looking for solutions to hearing difficulties.

Many Kiwis are reluctant to seek help for hearing difficulties because they worry about being thought of as “old”.

“It’s very much a hidden health issue. Almost 900,000 Kiwis, or about one in six, suffer from hearing difficulties and many people put off seeking help because of the stigma associated with hearing loss,” Craig says.

 

Hearing loss can impact wellbeing

Craig says even mild cases of hearing loss can significantly affect a person’s health and wellbeing.

“People who struggle to hear can become socially isolated. They often don’t interact with others as much as they used to and, for some, this can lead to depression.”

Research shows that on average people wait seven years to seek help for hearing issues.

“Loud noise and age are the most common factors leading to hearing difficulty, but most people even in their twenties are no longer able to hear high frequency sounds.”

As well as the stigma associated with hearing loss, Craig says cost and accessibility to care are also barriers to seeking help.

“For people who worry about being seen as old, we have totally invisible hearing aid options which can connect to phones and live stream music.

“For those concerned about cost, we offer a ‘Pay as you Hear’ subscription service across all levels of technology which customers can pay in monthly instalments.”

 

How to refer to Triton World of Hearing:

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• use the CareSelect search bar, type “Triton Hearing”
• click “Compose Referral”.

E-Referrals to Bowel Cancer New Zealand can now be made using CareSelect.

Referrals were previously sent via email, phone or Bowel Cancer New Zealand’s website.

Bowel cancer is the second highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand and kills as many people as breast and prostate cancer combined. And we have one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world.

Bowel Cancer New Zealand nurse support co-ordinator and registered nurse Victoria Thompson says that while these statistics are sobering, there is hope.

“Bowel cancer is treatable and beatable if it’s detected early enough,” she says.

“The more people affected by bowel cancer that we can support, the better. The new e-Referral form will make it easier for patients to be referred to us so they can get the support they need.”

 

Variety of support available

Bowel Cancer New Zealand provides support for people living with bowel cancer and those recovering from treatment, as well as their whānau.

“We offer funded support in the form of free rehabilitative physiotherapy and counselling sessions, as well as support services, resources and patient and whānau support groups.”

Victoria is also available to answer non-urgent inquiries via the website, the 0800 BCNZ NURSE phone number or email, Monday to Thursday from 10am-4pm.

 

Bowel cancer affects any age group

Victoria says bowel cancer can affect anyone at any age.

“Bowel cancer is not just something elderly people can develop. It also affects a lot of young people too. Around 30 Kiwis aged 50 or under are diagnosed with bowel cancer each month.”

She says it’s crucial that people are aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer, which may include:

• rectal bleeding
• change of bowel motions/habits that come and go over several weeks
• anaemia
• severe persistent or periodic abdominal pain
• a lump or mass in the abdomen
• tiredness and loss of weight for no obvious reason.

Bowel Cancer New Zealand’s Never Too Young campaign runs through the month of August and highlights the fact that bowel cancer affects young people too, she says.

“If a young person presents with bowel cancer symptoms, it shouldn’t be dismissed because of their age. It should be investigated further.”

 

How to refer to Bowel Cancer New Zealand:

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• use the CareSelect search bar, type “Bowel Cancer New Zealand”
• click “Compose Referral”.

Nandish Chiropractic in East Auckland has come a long way since it opened its doors in 2015.

It’s now one of the city’s largest chiropractic clinics with six chiropractors specialising in different fields.

E-Referrals to Nandish Chiropractic can be made using CareSelect.

Nandish Chiropractic has five departments: the Spinal Clinic, Headache and Migraine Clinic, Concussion Clinic, Pregnancy Clinic, and Paediatric Clinic.

Nandish Chiropractic founder and principal chiropractor Karen Singh says she loves helping people thrive by encouraging a proactive, holistic approach to healthcare.

Dr Singh has a keen interest in complex and chronic pain, spinal disc compression and stress. She also runs wellness classes teaching patients how to manage stress effectively.

“Chiropractic care is a proven and effective way to align the spine and nervous system to operate at its optimum potential,” she says.

 

Three-step process

Each new patient goes through a three-step process.

“They have an extensive health history check, physical assessment (postural, range of motion, orthopaedic, neurologic and spinal), and a report of findings with clinical diagnosis and a care plan tailored to the patient’s needs. We believe education and empowerment is key in the healing and recovery process,” says Dr Singh.

“We like to help people understand why things are happening and what they can do to help themselves. We also focus on stress and the effects it has on the body and functionality. The body is like a car – it won’t function as well as one that gets regularly serviced.”

Dr Singh says a common issue is device use and changes in the spinal curve due to an increased load on the neck and spinal nerves causing poor posture, headaches and premature degeneration.

“We help realign their posture, educate them about spinal ergonomics and where their screens should be to be proactive and avoid future problems.”

She says people sometimes confuse chiropractors with physiotherapists.

“Physiotherapists focus on injury rehabilitation, whereas chiropractors focus on the underlying issues with the neck, back and nervous system.”

Dr Singh says her team regularly holds workshops with health practitioners to explain what chiropractors do.

 

How to refer to Nandish Chiropractic:

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• use the CareSelect search bar, type “Nandish Chiropractic”
• click “Compose Referral”.

E-Referrals for Freedom Medical Alarms can now be made for patients living outside of Wellington.

Previously, e-Referrals could only be made for patients living in the capital, but they can now be made nationwide.

Freedom Medical Alarms national manager Debbie Booth says it’s exciting for the service to be expanding.

“It means we can provide support and reassurance to a much larger number of people,” she says.

 

Peace of mind for everybody

Freedom Medical Alarms is a joint venture with HealthCare NZ and Wellington Free Ambulance. It’s the only medical alarm directly connected to the Central Emergency Ambulance Communication Centre.

“That means patients are directly connected to trained emergency call-takers at the push of a button.”

Debbie says it’s reassuring for patients and their family members to know that medical help is readily available.

“It provides peace of mind for everybody and freedom from worry.”

 

Funding available

Freedom Medical Alarms is a Work and Income accredited supplier.

“If a patient qualifies, an alarm can be funded through the Disability Allowance.”

The cost of an ambulance call out is covered for all patients, Debbie says.

Freedom Medical Alarms also has a GO pendant that can be worn out in the community but isn’t currently funded.

 

Landline or cellular network

Patients can choose either a neck or wrist pendant, which they press in an emergency. The alarms work via a landline or the cellular network.

A key safe can be installed as part of the set up so paramedics can easily access a patient’s home in the case of an emergency.

“The patient’s next of kin is also contacted if an ambulance is called.”

Debbie says the demand for Freedom Medical Alarms is increasing.

“We’ve seen a surge in demand since the COVID-19 pandemic because people are living alone and isolated. We also have an ageing population and people want to be able to live in their own home for longer.”

 

How to refer to Freedom Medical Alarms:

• open the patient record
• select the HealthLink icon
• scroll to the “Referred Services” heading
• select Freedom Medical Alarms.