Goldfields set to pilot new ear health initiative

A new initiative aimed at improving ear health in Aboriginal children has launched in the Goldfields.

According to WA Country Health Service Regional Director (Goldfields), Geraldine Ennis PSM, the Pina Karnbi Ear Health Project will aim to improve ear health and hearing outcomes for the most vulnerable in the region.

“We know that Aboriginal children are more likely to suffer significantly more ear disease than non-Aboriginal children,” Ms Ennis said.

“This initiative is about early intervention - if we can improve ear health, we can give children a better start to their education and social development,” she added.

Ms Ennis said the WA Country Health Service would be partnering with the Bega Garnbirringu Health Service as well as the Telethon Kids Institute, Rural Health West and the University of Western Australia to ensure the success of the program.

“By working with the Bega Garnbirringu Health Service, we will bring together local service providers to tackle this issue,” she said.

“The program will support parents in activities that can benefit their children from birth, reducing the chances of ear disease developing. 

 "From there, the focus will be on early detection in the 0-2 year old age group, where early diagnosis of ear disease can have a dramatic impact on hearing outcomes for the child,” she added.

The Pina Karnbi Project is being showcased on 25 June at Bega Garnbirringu Health Service.