Collaboration is key to success for healthy South West project
Representatives from the Warren Blackwood Enhancing Primary Health WACHS Director of Nursing Warren Blackwood Hospitals Justine Kelly, Blackwood Youth Action Group Chief Executive Lisa Burgess, Bridgetown GP Dr Sarah Youngson and Warren Blackwood Revenue Enhancement Officer Bruce Mighall.
A strong collaborative effort from South West health providers has resulted in the Warren Blackwood Enhancing Primary Health project being named a finalist in the WA Rural Health Excellence Awards.
The project’s successful implementation has been thanks to a collaboration between WA Country Health Service, , the South West Aboriginal Medical Service, WA Primary Health Alliance, GP Down South, District Health Advisory Committee members, Shire representatives and local GPs from Bridgetown and Manjimup.
Following successful Commonwealth funding applications between 2020 and 2022, the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) South West Inland team raised $450,000 to enhance a range of primary health services in Manjimup and Bridgetown.
From the funds raised, $160,000 has been invested into youth mental health services, partnering with the Blackwood Youth Action Group.
The investment supported the implementation of the Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyle (HEAL) modification program, aimed at treating and preventing chronic conditions in local youth.
The project has also supported the commencement of a new ultrasound service at Bridgetown Hospital, allowing patients to stay close to home and support networks.
Plans are now in place to develop diabetes education, enhanced mental health services, real-time ultrasound, an audiology clinic and a therapy area at the hospitals.
WACHS would like to congratulate the project team on their efforts and all of the finalists shortlisted in the awards.