Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District chief executive Margot Mains said some patients may be transferred to other hospitals within the district, as clinically appropriate, in order to create capacity where it is most needed.

"In particular, it is important that we have capacity at Shoalhaven and Milton Ulladulla hospitals," she said.

"Shoalhaven Hospital patients may be temporarily transferred to Shellharbour or Wollongong hospitals or another hospital across the district to ensure we are best placed to meet any and all demands in an emergency situation.

"We understand that patients wish to be treated as close to home as possible and any transferred patients will be returned to their local hospital as soon as possible."

Ms Mains said the health district had put other proactive measures in place to cope with the unprecedented bushfire emergency.

"The local health district has extensive plans in place for the prevention, preparation, response and recovery from the impact and effects of an emergency," she said.

"In response to the current bushfires on the South Coast, the LHD has ensured contingency plans are in place for vulnerable patients, who have been identified and monitored since the fires began."

Ms Mains reminded people preparing to leave their homes to make sure they had their medications with them, and any repeat prescriptions they may have.

The health chief also urged the community to take precautions and "look out for family, friends and neighbours" with the challenging weather and extreme fire danger predicted today.

She added that mental health and counselling services were available for community members if required.

Meantime across the state, there are several NSW Health facilities which have been - or are in the process of being - relocated due to bushfires.

These include Tumbarumba Multi-Purpose Service; Batlow Hospital; Pambula Hospital; Delegate Multi-Purpose Service and Tumut District Hospital.

For non-emergency advice, residents can call the 24-hour Healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222. Anyone requiring urgent medical attention should call Triple Zero (000).

If the matter is not an emergency see a GP, medical centre or pharmacist.

To contact your local mental health service call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. Or call Lifeline on 131114.

For practical assistance call the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line 1800 018 444.