First Nations Telegraph

Since opening its doors earlier this month, Cherbourg’s new Preventative and Chronic Disease Clinic is having a positive impact on the community.

Aboriginal Health Practitioner Lynette Brown said the introduction of two health practitioners at the Clinic means they can offer a more well-rounded model of care.

“Patients that I’ve spoken to are very happy with the service they get.

“They come into the health practitioners before seeing the Doctor, we do all their observations, and also have yarns with them about any social or emotional issues, any concerns or underlying conditions that may have come up since they last spoke to a doctor or nurse.

“It’s not just about health, the clinic is an overall comprehensive service working to help the community,” Ms Brown said.

Aboriginal Health Practitioner Sylvia McGregor said this clinic is an expansion of care that was previously provided at the hospital.

“It took people a few weeks to get used to the clinic being in the Community Health building, but now we’re booked out for the next three weeks.

“At the moment, patients need to book their appointments in advance, however we’re trying to allocate a few walk-in appointments a week.

“We’re passionate about educating people and changing their attitudes around their health,” Ms McGregor said.

Chief Executive of Darling Downs Health, Annette Scott PSM said the opening of the clinic and inclusion of Aboriginal Health Practitioners is a great outcome for the Cherbourg community.

“The investment in preventative health is all about ensuring people can live longer, healthier lives.

“The expansion of the clinic means patients who don’t require urgent care are waiting less time to be seen, so it’s a fantastic outcome for the community of Cherbourg," Ms Scott said.

People who are acutely unwell or experiencing a health emergency, can visit Cherbourg Hospital which is open 24/7.