Bunbury Regional Hospital works with local Elders on culturally safe care

WA Country Health Service (WACHS) was honoured to host a group of Wardandi Elders at Bunbury Regional Hospital, who shared their knowledge and advice on providing culturally safe and accessible care.

The WACHS team was keen to learn from the Elders how to ensure services, programs and resources can deliver an integral part of compassionate and appropriate care.

Executive Director South West Kerry Winsor, Regional Aboriginal Health Consultant Michelle Munns, and Aboriginal Health staff led a discussion on important health care topics including waiting in emergency departments to be seen, raising concerns via Aishwarya’s CARE Call, and why patients should avoid self-discharging against medical advice.

The group agreed that a strong focus on Aboriginal representation in service materials and resources was crucial in delivering important health messages, helping to build trust and respect within the community.

Michelle Munns said meeting with Elders is vital in improving the health outcomes of Aboriginal community members.

“These consultations are important to ensure our hospitals address issues Aboriginal patients and families may have so they feel safe in accessing our services.

“Discussions like this allow us to see what avenues we can take to promote health messaging across the South West,” Ms Munns said.

Thank you to the Elders who attended and to the South West team for providing opportunities for these important conversations.