MPHN celebrates Aboriginal health workers and practitioners in the Murrumbidgee

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is inviting the wider community to unite this Sunday to celebrate and recognise the achievements and evolution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners across the Murrumbidgee region. 

The National Recognition Day for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners seeks to acknowledge the vital work and devotion of Aboriginal health workers who continue to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for individuals and communities.

MPHN’s Acting CEO Julie Redway said all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners deserve this day to highlight their achievements and efforts.

“We proudly recognise the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners who are deeply dedicated to the wellbeing of their communities,” Ms Redway said.

“MPHN is delighted to support the work of many Aboriginal health workers through a range funded programs supporting Murrumbidgee Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

“With the guidance, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the health workforce has continued to grow and progress. 

MPHN’s Senior Manager Commissioning Janelle Dufty said Aboriginal health workers and practitioners deserve recognition for their vital work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many Aboriginal health workers strive to improve the wellbeing and inclusiveness of individuals and communities in the Murrumbidgee,” Ms Dufty said.

“Their combination of clinical, cultural, social and linguistic skills delivers an engagement experience that sets them apart from others working in the health care system.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers have the drive to build a strong professional workforce that will lead to closing the gap in health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.”

MPHN provides funding and support to local Aboriginal Medical Services, multiple drug and alcohol recovery programs including Aboriginal employment initiative Work It Out, the Women’s Wellness and Recovery program that runs across Wagga Wagga, Deniliquin, Young, Narrandera and Griffith and training opportunities in Cultural Capability provided by Coolamon Advisors.

For more information about the National Recognition Day for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners visit www.naatsihwp.org.au.