REACH
What is REACH?
REACH stands for Recognise, Engage, Act, Call, Help is on its way.
If you are worried about a recent change in your condition or someone you care for, you can use REACH to escalate your concerns if no one seems to be noticing.
Remember to start by speaking to the nurse or doctor first – they are the best people to help address your worries. If you still feel worried after speaking to them, you can call REACH to escalate your concerns.
Our staff support your decision to call REACH. We understand that you, your carers and families can recognise the early signs when 'something is not right'. We want you to be involved and work with us to keep you or the person you care for safe.
How the REACH program works
| Recognise | You may recognise a worrying change in your condition, or in the person you care for – even if you can’t put your finger on it. |
|---|---|
| Engage | Talk with the nurse or doctor first. Tell them your concerns. |
| Act |
Ask the nurse in charge for a Clinical Review. A nurse or doctor will come and check on you or the person you are caring for. This should happen within 30 minutes. |
| Call | If you are still worried, call REACH. |
| Help is on its way | You will receive help with your concerns from a senior staff member. |
How to call REACH
If you’re in hospital, you can use your bedside phone or ask for a ward phone to call REACH. You can also use your own phone. Find your facility in the list below:
| Facility | Bedside/ward phone REACH number | Mobile/fixed line REACH number or switchboard operator |
|---|---|---|
| Balmain Hospital | 6603 | 02 9395 2111 (Switchboard) |
| Canterbury Hospital | 6003 | 02 9153 2000 (Switchboard) |
| Concord Hospital | 73224 | 02 9767 3224 |
| RPA Hospital – Adult and Maternity Services | 234 | 02 9515 6111 (Switchboard) |
| RPA Hospital – Paediatric Services | 6666 | 02 9515 6111 (Switchboard) |
| RPA Hospital – Emergency Department and The Perioperative Unit | — | 0436 919 231 |
| Mental Health Services in our Hospitals | — | 0472 802 944 |
| Mental Health Services in the Community | — | 02 9967 7555 |
| RPA Virtual Hospital | — | 1800 873 224 |
| Sydney Dental Hospital and Oral Health Services |
— | 0477 899 201 |
The REACH program was developed by the NSW Clinical Excellence Commission.