Parkes Shire Council is involved in discussions to set up an aboriginal health service in Parkes.
Councillor Alan Ward (On behalf of council ) is working with various groups to bring about the service which he believes will take a lot of strain off medical services in Parkes.
‘This would not be just for indigenous people, but for anyone who would need to use the services,’ he said.
Parkes Mayor Cr Ken Keith said it is possible the service could be incorporated into the new Parkes hospital when it is built.
Cr Ward has provided council with an update on aspects of the project.
‘A meeting has been held to consider future prospects to the establishment of the Aboriginal Health Service in Parkes, to be named Parkes Outreach Service,’ h e said.
‘Representatives at the meeting included Mark Dodd and Paul McFadyen ICC Wagga Wagga, Wendy Moore GWAHS Aboriginal Health, Tracey Wilkinson OAMS, Karen Hartley and Alison Quin Parkes Aboriginal Multi Purpose Corporation.
‘The meeting indicated that research has already been undertaken regarding present medical facilities within Parkes,’ Cr Ward said.
‘It was advised the Orange City Council assists
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Orange Outreach Service by providing a building facility rent free.
‘It was asked if Parkes Shire Council was in a position to assist by either providing a similar building or assistance financially with rental expenses.’
Cr Alan Ward said he indicated that there was no building available for Parkes Shire Council to assist with a “free” building nor would it be possible in the current financial climate to provide rental assistance .
However he suggested the Committee should still put forward a letter requesting in principle support from council.
Cr Alan Ward told the meeting of the groups that Parkes Shire Council would welcome the formation of an Outreach Centre in Parkes.
An Outreach Service is a much needed facility for Parkes, Cr Ward told council.
‘In the interim, subject to the agreement of the Health Service, the Centre could be set up at Parkes Hospital under its new design. If the project is to go ahead, it could take at least 12 months to set up.’
‘OAMS and other medical bodies would be responsible for the set-up and staffing of the Outreach Facility for as long as it takes with the end goal being the facility standing alone with minimal assistance.’
Cr Ward reported that Cowra was in the process of forming their service which is due to open soon.
‘It was also requested the Parkes Shire Council assist as a social partner to this project,’ he said.
‘It is recognised that the development of a Parkes Outreach Service is of most benefit to our already strained medical services for Parkes.
‘It is important that Parkes Shire Council support and encourage the continued research for this worthy project. I am quite positive this could be something which will greatly benefit Parkes,’ he concluded. Council resolved to receive and note the information and to await further information concerning the viability of the suggestion.
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