Heart Support Australia (HSA) has opened a peer support group in Mossman (Port Douglas) which will offer support for cardiac patients in the area.  

The HSA peer support groups are unique communal support programs that offer comfort and guidance to those who have recently undergone a heart event and for those who have experienced heart conditions and rehabilitation. 

The link between cardiovascular disease and COVID-19, including resulting inflammation of the cardiovascular system from the virus, saw 17 percent more Australians die of ischemic heart disease in the first eight months of 2022 than what is considered “natural range”.

HSA CEO Dr Christian Verdicchio said that while heart disease has been the leading cause of death for Australians for years, the COVID-19 outbreak and continued infections in the community have worsened the risk factors, meaning the demand for support systems has never been higher. 

“Unfortunately, far too often when people are diagnosed with or undergo treatment for a heart condition, they don’t have ongoing support and that can be incredibly isolating," Dr Verdicchio said.

“Our support groups are designed to ensure that our patients are staying on the path to a healthier life by making it known to them that they are not alone because they are interacting with their leader and group members who have gone through similar circumstances."

Leading the Mossman (Port Douglas) peer support group is Tim Amos who sees the immense value in such a concept.

“I was advised by my cardiologist and staff about the Cardiac Rehab Program at Mossman Hospital, which I gladly completed," Mr Amos told Newsport.

"I now strongly encourage all people that have had heart events to come and join our group."

The Mossman peer support group takes place on the first Wednesday of each month at 1pm at the Mossman Community Health (Mossman Hospital) except for December and January each year.

Heart Support Australia encourages people to get involved with the community support session by getting in touch with group leader Tim Amos by calling on 0466 718 752 or by emailing: [email protected]