Coolangatta’s tailored aged care services for Indigenous elders include culturally relevant support networks, accessible healthcare facilities, and community programs that acknowledge and respect traditional practices. The doctors help ensure that every senior is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion while providing them with the best possible care.

The doctor works with families to address any health concerns and ensure that children receive the personalised and inclusive care they deserve. As part of our comprehensive paediatric care, we provide timely vaccinations and regular health check-ups for children to promote a foundation of lifelong health.

Designing personalised physiotherapy programs for Indigenous people involves not just addressing their physical ailments but also incorporating cultural sensitivity that makes them feel safe and comfortable. By integrating traditional knowledge and practices into rehabilitation, we can bridge healthcare gaps while promoting holistic well-being.

As part of the government’s efforts to increase vaccination coverage in Indigenous populations, we conduct accessible immunisation programs at Coolangatta Medical Centre for the Aboriginal and  Torres Strait Islander communities.

We understand that implementing drug and alcohol testing for Indigenous communities requires a balanced and culturally respectful approach. By fostering open communication and providing the support they need alongside testing, we can address substance use issues effectively and with compassion and understanding.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are at a higher risk of developing foot complications compared to non-Indigenous Australians. The doctors strive to close this gap by designing culturally sensitive preventative care, education, and interventions in addressing specific foot health challenges.

Cardiovascular diseases are among one of the most common health concerns that impact the life expectancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Our cardiologists understand this higher prevalence of cardiovascular issues within these communities. That’s why we strive to provide a service that involves not only the best possible care, but also an understanding of unique social, economic, and cultural factors that impact their overall wellbeing.

Coolangatta’s dietary programs aim to improve overall health and address specific nutritional concerns prevalent in Indigenous communities. The doctors offer nutritional advice that incorporates appropriate traditional foods and practices to promote well-balanced nutrition that is also familiar to their palate.

The doctors for Aboriginal medical services provide comprehensive chronic disease management programs that integrate modern medicine with traditional healing approaches. These holistic care plans address the health challenges faced by Indigenous people, emphasising the prevention of further complications and management of chronic conditions.

In 2005, the Social Justice Report called out the Australian governments for the improvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s healthcare and life expectancy within 25 years. This launched the Closing the Gap campaign, which urges the entire nation to contribute to the elimination of the disparities between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, particularly in healthcare, education, and employment.

In July 2020, the Coalition of Peaks (Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organisations), together with all Australian governments and the Local Government Association, signed the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. The goal of the National Agreement is for the Indigenous communities and the governments to work together to eliminate the inequality experienced by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It represents the commitment by Australian governments to improve their health, education, employment, and other socio-economic aspects with the involvement of the Indigenous communities in the decision-making process.

Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) are primary health care service providers established and operated by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia. Their mission is to address the specific healthcare needs and priorities of the Indigenous populations in a culturally appropriate, holistic, and comprehensive manner.

For many Indigenous Australians, health not only corresponds to the presence or absence of disease or illness. It is a holistic concept that covers the physical, social, emotional, cultural, and spiritual well-being of individuals, families, and communities. This means that programs, policies, and services catered to them need to move beyond the regular physical and medical health and should include the social and cultural aspects.

Strengths-Based Care, as the name suggests, is an approach that focuses on an individual’s strengths and the resources available to help them deal with their health challenges more effectively. It acknowledges the inherent capabilities and resilience of a person rather than their issues or weaknesses.