Indigenous Health Coordinator

We have an exciting opportunity for an Indigenous Health Coordinator which is an integral role for the Indigenous Wellness Connect Project.

About the Project:

The Indigenous Wellness Connect Project creates a digitally enabled, culturally safe and connected network of primary care services between underserviced rural communities, with predominately Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, to the closest primary care hub and specialist services.

Supported by enhanced digital satellite connectivity, the Project utilises sophisticated telehealth cart systems with diagnostic peripheral tools with remote support from a multidisciplinary team of General Practitioners, Allied Health and Specialists to provide equity of access to care. 

This project is a localised model in the townships of Goondiwindi, Toomelah and Boggabilla that have a predominantly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, with limited onsite attendance from primary care providers and challenging telecommunications connectivity. The Project will also support the non-indigenous population for management of their complex/chronic health conditions in these communities.

Supporting principles outlined in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, the Project enables Indigenous people and governments to work together to overcome the inequality and achieve life outcomes equal for all Australians. Furthermore it supports the priority reform to transform government organisations so they work better for Indigenous people.

About the role:

The Project supports the multidisciplinary health teams at each site to deliver flexible patient-centered, culturally safe, place-based care with appropriate cultural oversight being provided from this role.

The role works collaboratively with primary care providers, local Health Clinics, community leaders and organizations to enhance cultural safety within the healthcare setting across 3 locations of Goondiwindi, Toomelah and Boggabilla. Frequent travel will be required between these sites.

Key purpose of the role:

• Collaborate with the Telehealth Coordinator and other healthcare professionals, including general practitioners, nurses, and allied health professionals, to implement care plans tailored to the specific needs of patients.
• Facilitate communication and coordination between various healthcare providers to ensure seamless and comprehensive care delivery. Coordinate and encourage 715 health assessments for patients.
• Support patients to access and attend appointments and referrals as part of their care.
• Follow up all patient referrals to increase uptake of health services and programs as well as increase attendance for appointments.
• Attend and support patients at general practice appointments where appropriate (assist in telehealth appointments, GP and Specialist appointments).
• Advocate for the rights and preferences of patients, ensuring they have access to appropriate and culturally sensitive healthcare services.
• Assist patients in navigating the healthcare system and accessing necessary resources and support. Work with patients’ families and caregivers to assist where required in their support and understanding of health care.
• Implement health promotion initiatives tailored to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• Support the multidisciplinary health teams at each site to deliver flexible patient-centred, culturally safe, place-based care with appropriate cultural oversight.
• Develop inclusive policies and procedures, undertake cultural safety audits and evaluation and encourage cultural competence of the primary care service delivery.
• Provide monthly reports to the PHN and the governing body, Macintyre Health Alliance to provide an overview of activity, numbers of patients supported, documentation reviewed, new culturally appropriate initiatives introduced, etc.

Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated knowledge of the primary health care and community services sectors.
• Demonstrated ability to partner and collaborate with a wide network of individuals and organisations to achieve meaningful outcomes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal skills, time management skills and project management skills.
• Ability to build successful relationships and partnerships with key stakeholders both internally and externally.
• A current Australian Drivers License

All enquiries should be directed to Kate McLoughlin via email kate.mcloughlin@ddwmphn.com.au

To apply for this position, please do so via SEEK ensuring you include a Resume and Cover Letter that addresses your suitability against the selection criteria (max 2 pages).