Rebuilt clinic offers better care

Health care in the Aboriginal community of Jigalong has been given a boost with the refurbishment of its only health clinic.

The community, 165km east of Newman, received the $1.76 million upgrades as part of the State Government’s Remote Indigenous Health Clinics program that funds upgrades to clinic infrastructure for indigenous communities across the Pilbara and Kimberley. The facility would continue to be run by Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service, which has provided health care in Jigalong since 1994.

PAMS chief executive Robbie Chibawe said the upgrades included three new clinic rooms, an improved pharmacy, and a dedicated reception area.

Mr Chibawe said it was a complete refurbishment of the old building, turning it into a purpose-built clinic.

“This one is designed in a very functional way to provide primary health service, it also has cultural considerations to ensure that we can provide culturally appropriate health care,” he said.

Mr Chibawe said the improvements to the building would help with serving the community because people would be able to get the service they needed.

“This is the first time that we have an actual clinic since 1994, and it’s a huge boost for the community, having a nice clinic,” he said.

“If people are happy to come into the clinic when they are feeling a little unwell, then our clinicians can prevent any health problems from getting worse or prevent them from getting anything at all.”

Health Minister Roger Cook said the upgrade would improve Aboriginal access to care.

“The McGowan Government is committed to providing access to culturally safe health care that recognises the importance of Aboriginal culture to the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities,” he said.

Member for Pilbara Kevin Michel said access to health care on country was often the difference between seeking or not seeking treatment

“The improved emergency triage and treatment spaces, consult rooms, pharmacy and clinical support services will ensure Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service can continue delivering excellent health care in Jigalong,” he said.