The Albanese Government is providing $1.4 million to Killarney Memorial Aged Care to trial a holistic team-based healthcare approach in rural and remote communities in the Southern Downs region in Queensland.
This funding will expand the Killarney Medical Centre to give locals better access to mental and physical health services.
The multidisciplinary team will include general practitioners and allied health professionals such as psychologists and nutritionists. Community support workers, and students of general practice, nursing and counselling, will round out the team.
A dedicated practice navigator will also play a central role in linking services and supporting doctors to ensure people get the wrap around care they need.
The trial of this new model of care, funded through the Government's Innovative Models of Care (IMOC) program, includes outreach services to Yangan, Mount Colliery, Legume, and Tannymorel.
Planned programs under this model include:
- A Dementia Alliance bringing together local healthcare professionals, caregivers, community organisations and Dementia Australia
- A comprehensive palliative care program offering medical, emotional, and social support for individuals nearing the end of life
- Tailored support groups for mothers and young mothers addressing specific needs, such as mental health, nutrition, child health, and fitness
- Intergenerational/volunteer programs such as a community driven garden, and Men's Shed Mentoring Program for At-Risk Youth; and
- Fitness and nutrition programs.
The grant is part of a $24.7 million, four-year Government investment under the IMOC program which trials new ways of delivering multidisciplinary primary care in rural and remote communities.
Applications for further IMOC grants will open in late 2023.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"When we came to government, nine years of cuts and neglect to Medicare meant it had never been harder or more expensive to see a doctor, particularly for people in rural and regional Australia."
"The Albanese Government is investing in innovative models of healthcare to ensure people get the right care, at the right time, by the right team and in the right place.
"Every community is different. Health teams working together means more people have better access to health care without having to travel too far from home."
Quotes attributable to Senator Nita Green:
"I congratulate Killarney Memorial Aged Care on its successful grant application.
"The trial of this collaborative network will ensure comprehensive and integrated healthcare for people living in Killarney and the Southern Downs.
"Addressing the specific primary care needs in our community will strengthen this region and encourage more health professionals to look at careers in rural and regional health."
Quotes attributable to Dannielle Hersant, Heath Care Manager, Killarney Memorial Aged Care:
"Our community healthcare initiative aims to transform our rural community, setting a precedent for better health outcomes that can be replicated in communities across the nation.
"Our grassroots, collaborative approach centres on leveraging existing resources and services, crafting a dynamic sustainable network for healthier communities.
"Our strategy is about community engagement, finding innovative ways to bridge service gaps, and ensuring that rural areas can access the resources they deserve.
"We believe that by strengthening community bonds and promoting proactive healthcare, we can serve as a model for better health in rural regions, inspiring positive change far and wide."
