SearchIndigenous Wellness Connect is an innovative, multidisciplinary model of care. It is designed to provide culturally safe, patient centred, digitally connected primary care that improves equity of access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people based in rural and remote Australia.
Care will be delivered through a connected network of primary care services to the closest primary care hub and beyond to support underserviced rural communities with Indigenous populations.
The care model will include the use of a sophisticated telehealth cart system with diagnostic peripheral tools, enhanced digital satellite connectivity, and remote support from a multidisciplinary team of General Practitioners, Allied Health and Specialists.
The intended patient journey and the various supports behind it, has been illustrated using ‘Uncle Mick’ from our PHN’s Bunya Family.
This initiative is supported through an IMOC (Innovative Model of Care) grant, coordinated by the Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN on behalf of the Macintyre Health Alliance. It is funded through support from the Commonwealth Government.
About the Model
This is a localised model for the trial based across NSW and Queensland border townships. Two of these townships, Toomelah and Boggabilla in NSW, have a predominantly Indigenous population, with limited onsite attendance from primary care providers and unreliable telecommunications connectivity. Access to the closest General Practice and a range of Allied Health services is in the township of Goondiwindi in Queensland, with the closest Specialist care in Toowoomba.
The Project can also support the non-Indigenous population for management of their complex health conditions.
Macintyre Health Alliance
The Macintyre Health Alliance is a collaboration between Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN, Goondiwindi Medical Centre, Darling Downs Health, Pius X Aboriginal Medical Service, Hunter New England Central Coast PHN and the Hunter New England Local Health District.
It was formed to make recommendations on the delivery of health services within the Toomelah, Boggabilla and Goondiwindi region, and advocate for improved health services and outcomes for the people living in these communities.
News
Innovative care model to improve cross border access to care
July 2024
A grant has been secure for the Indigenous Wellness Connect initiative.
Contact
If you would like to contact the Indigenous Wellness Connect team, please use our enquiry form:
