Sexual health
Talking about sex might be a bit embarrassing, but it can be a big help in sorting out how you feel, what’s right for you and what you feel ready for. You can get advice and practical help about creating a safe and happy sex life for yourself from your local family planning clinic or sexual health clinic. It’s free, and usually private (though you should check first because different places have different rules).
FPNSW Penrith
Free reproductive and sexual health care for people age 12 and over, free condoms, STI testing, emergency contraception, pregnancy testing, breast check-ups, pap smears, advice and counselling
13 Reserve St
4749 0500
Blue Mountains Sexual Health Clinic
Testing and treatment for STIs.
Blue Mountains District ANZAC Memorial Hospital
4784 6560
Blue Mountains Women's Health and Resource Centre
A range of health services run by women for women. Services provided include free pap tests, breast checks, contraception, STD and pregnancy testing etc, young women's art space and drop in clinic, free library and computer access, information and referral, acupuncture, massage, counselling and extensive group program. Open Monday to Fridays 9:30am - 12:30pm and 1:30pm - 4:30pm.
124 Lurline Street, Katoomba
4782 5133
bmwhrc@bmwhrc.org
Adolescent Support Midwife, Clinical Nurse Consultant
If you're under 18 and pregnant, this service provides classes in parenting, referrals to psychologists and ultrasounds, and a choice of where to attend for prenatal care.
Nepean Hospital
4749 0500
PLWHA (People Living with HIV/AIDS)
Not actually a medical service, but they help make life easier for people living with HIV and other STIs, by giving info and support. Open Wednesday 12:30 pm.
4782 2119
Emergencies
Most hospitals have an emergency department which you can go to any time you need urgent medical help. If you can’t get to the hospital on your own, call an ambulance by dialing 000 - or 112 if you’re on a mobile. This is a free call, even if your mobile is out of credit.
The operator will ask you whether you need Police, Fire or Ambulance. The ambulance operator will then ask you where the emergency is - the address, suburb and state - and the phone number you’re calling from. If you call from a landline they can trace your address.
They will also ask you what happened and how many people need help. Be honest - it might save someone’s life.
But what if i don’t know all this stuff?
Stay calm - the operator will help you. If your friend is sick or unconscious and you don’t know what’s wrong, try to describe their symptoms. If you don’t know exactly where you are - like if you’re lost in the bush - explain that you’re lost, and how you got there. Don’t hang up until the emergency services operator does.
Hospitals
In Australia the government provides free or low-cost medical, hospital and eye care to everybody. All you need to use the system is a Medicare card.
If you’re under 15, chances are your name’s already on the same card as your parents or guardians. If you need to get your own card, get the form from www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/forms/3101. You’ll also find all the info you need about how to get money back after you see a doctor by following the Medicare and You link.
Blue Mountains District ANZAC Memorial Hospital
Cnr Woodlands Road, Katoomba
4784 6500
Springwood Hospital
7 Huntley Grange Rd, Springwood
4784 6500
Nepean Hospital
Derby St, Kingswood, Penrith
4734 2000
Westmead Hospital
Cnr Hawkesbury and Darcy Roads, Westmead
9845 5555
Community health centres
Offer a variety of health services, including counselling and support for young people with mental health or drug and alcohol issues, family counselling, and early childhood health services.
Katoomba Community Health Centre
93 Waratah Street, Katoomba
4782 2133
Springwood Community Health Centre
288-292 Macquarie Rd, Springwood
4751 0100
Special services for young people
If you don't feel like seeing your local doctor for whatever reason, the Mountains offers quite a few health services specially for young people.
FPNSW Penrith
This is the place to go for anything to do with sex and relationships. Free reproductive and sexual health care for people age 12 and over, plus free condoms, STI testing, emergency contraception, pregnancy testing, breast check-ups, pap smears, advice and counselling
13 Reserve St, Penrith
4749 0500
Youth Drug and Alcohol Service
This is the first number to call if you need help dealing with drug or alcohol addition.
Nepean Hospital
4734 1333
Headspace
If you are 12 - 25 and dealing with mental health issues, this service can help you get the support you need. Monday to Friday 9 am - 5 pm.
606 High Street, Penrith
4720 8800
Dental Clinic
Dental services for anyone under 18.
Springwood: 288-292 Macquarie Street
1300 769 221 or 4734 2387