Healthcare reconfiguration to benefit Newman community

The community of Newman is set to benefit from more access to medical care.

From 24 October 2022, additional doctors will be based at Newman Health Service, while private provider, Sonic HealthPlus, will independently operate the local General Practitioner (GP) service.

Under the previous arrangement, doctors from the GP service also assisted in the hospital.

The reconfiguration will benefit the local community through improved availability of GP services, while also maintaining hospital service delivery.

WA Country Health Service Pilbara Regional Director Margi Faulkner said the changes will ensure that the community of Newman has easy access to sustainable, high-quality healthcare.

“GPs have been, and always will be, fundamental to the provision of quality healthcare in country communities and I thank them for the significant contribution they continue to make in our hospitals and emergency departments across the State.

“This adjustment in Newman strikes the balance between optimal hospital and GP care,” she said.

Newman Health Service is currently undergoing a $61.4 million redevelopment, and includes an expanded emergency department, modern, fit for purpose inpatient rooms and telehealth-enabled outpatient care.

Funding for the Newman Health Service includes a $15 million contribution from BHP.