Lake Cargelligo locals speak up about health issues

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) would like to thank Lake Cargelligo residents who came along and discussed the health needs in their community at the recent ‘Conversations on the Couch’ event.

MPHN travelled to Lake Cargelligo in late March and interviewed 23 locals who shared their views.

MPHN Manager Planning and Reporting Toni Preuss said while the residents were happy with the hospital, pharmacy, and GP services, they raised a number of concerns.

“We heard about the number of people travelling to Griffith, Albury, Wagga Wagga or even further for treatment, which is expensive and makes for a very long day for people who are unwell or elderly,” Ms Preuss said

“Residents discussed the availability and cost of community transport, and restrictions on distances which is problematic when residents need to travel to access care.”

A number of residents discussed the need for local dialysis services to help reduce the travel burden. Some residents reported a need for more allied health and social services as well as advising many locals were unaware of what services were available locally.

MPHN will use feedback from Lake Cargelligo Conversations on the Couch to update the federal government on health needs in the Murrumbidgee in its Health Needs Assessment refresh at the end of the year.

“We really appreciate everyone who took the time to speak with us,” Ms Preuss said.

“Your feedback will help us better understand emerging health needs for the Lake Cargelligo community.”

Residents can still share their thoughts on health in Lake Cargelligo by completing the quick, confidential Health Needs Assessment survey at mphn.org.au/hna or by calling MPHN on (02) 6923 3100 or getting in touch with the Lake Cargelligo Local Health Advisory Committee.