Studying for a unique nationally recognised diploma has brought together staff from Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) across NSW.
Meeting in Chippendale – the twenty students from as far away as Broken Hill, Brewarrina, Ballina and Batemans Bay – began the first face-to-face block of study this week.
The highly successful course, now in its fourth year, was developed by NSW and ACT general practice training organisation GP Synergy in collaboration with TAFE OTEN (now TAFE Digital).
GP Synergy CEO John Oldfield said the role of practice managers in the delivery of primary health care is immensely important.
“The diploma is designed for ACCHS staff to access best practice training in the delivery of culturally appropriate health care.
“In addition to improving healthcare service delivery for local Aboriginal communities, the diploma also seeks to increase opportunities for doctors training to be GPs to undertake Aboriginal health training in a community setting,” Mr Oldfield said.
GP Synergy’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Education Unit Manager Anthony Paulson said by bringing together staff from ACCHSs there is also a sharing of ideas and transfer of knowledge that strengthens the sector.
“Supporting ACCHSs is a key action for GP Synergy – delivering the diploma is one way we’re contributing to closing the gap in the health disparity experienced by Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people,” Mr Paulson said.
