MPHN seeks to understand health needs from Aboriginal People in Hay

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is seeking feedback on the specific health needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Murrumbidgee region to incorporate into its updated Health Needs Assessment (HNA) for the Murrumbidgee region.

MPHN will be gathering community feedback through two online surveys – one two-question and one in-depth community surveys and a Yarns on the Couch event to be held on 22 March at the Hay Aboriginal Medical Centre from 10.30am to 12.20pm.

MPHN’s Aboriginal Health Manager Melinda Green, a proud Yorta Yorta woman, said it is exciting to continue the work of gathering the local needs and experiences of Aboriginal people in the Murrumbidgee. 

“This data will assist with addressing the poorer health outcomes experienced by Aboriginal people when compared to national data and it is vital we hear from as many people as possible,” Ms Green said.

“The HNA Community Feedback program is a great way for Aboriginal people to share their views on what is important to them. The surveys are easy to follow, confidential and will help in the development of better health services for all First Nation’s people across the Murrumbidgee region.”

Hay Aboriginal Medical Service Team Leader Jean Woods said she was excited the Yarns on the Couch event was coming to Hay and encouraged to community to get involved.

“Yarns on the Couch is a wonderful initiative that will provide an opportunity for community members to come together and share their views and experiences, and help guide positive improvements for health and wellbeing in the Hay region,” Ms Woods said.

People are encouraged to visit the Hay AMS on 22 March and head to www.mphn.org.au/aboriginal-health-community to submit their feedback via the online surveys.