Community invited to help shape future healthcare in Batlow and Tumbarumba

Community members in Batlow and Tumbarumba are being encouraged to take part in a new survey to help shape the future of local healthcare services. 

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) and Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) are seeking local insights to better understand the challenges residents face accessing general practice and allied health services, with both towns identified as having limited and often fragile service availability. 

The survey is part of MPHN’s Thin Markets project, a planning and co‑design initiative focused on understanding local needs and identifying practical ways to strengthen access to healthcare. Feedback from the community will be used to develop a plan that outlines realistic options to improve how healthcare services are delivered locally over the long term. 

MPHN Senior Lead Engagement and Design Mr Andrew Heap said community input is vital to understanding the real challenges people face when accessing healthcare. 

“We’re hoping to hear the everyday experiences that will give us an insight into how healthcare is working on the ground,” Mr Heap said. 

“For example, are locals having to wait days or weeks for appointments, having to travel long distances, or are they delaying seeking assistance, or even giving up altogether, because it’s too hard to access the services they need? 

“We’re also keen to hear from healthcare providers about the challenges they’re managing behind the scenes and the barriers that affect their ability to deliver timely care.” 

The survey is open to residents, health professionals, service providers and local partners, and takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete. All responses are confidential and will be de‑identified. 

The information gathered will help identify service models and options that support more sustainable access to general practice and primary care in Batlow and Tumbarumba. 

The project is supported through the Australian Government’s General Practice Incentive Fund Thin Markets Grant, which aims to strengthen access to general practice in communities with limited services. 

Mr Heap said the lived experience of local people is essential to designing meaningful, long‑term improvements. 

“This work gives Batlow and Tumbarumba an opportunity to shape what sustainable healthcare looks like for their communities,” Mr Heap said.  

“So we’re strongly encouraging locals to take a moment to complete the survey and tell us what really matters to them.” 

The community survey is now open at www.mphn.org.au