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RDN doubles support in response to calls to expand obstetrics Outreach services in Condobolin
14th October 2024
Rural Doctors Network (RDN) has doubled the frequency of obstetrics Outreach clinics in Condobolin due to increased demand and in response to calls from the community and healthcare providers.
The need for an increase in the number of Outreach health access clinics was identified by both healthcare providers and the local community, with the Condobolin Aboriginal Health Service, in particular, instrumental in advocating for expanded services.
RDN’s Health Access Services Manager, Amanda Masset, said RDN was delighted to be able to support the expansion of obstetric Outreach clinics to Condobolin.
“Expanding this obstetric service is not only essential, but also a crucial investment in the health of mothers, babies, and the community,” Amanda said.
Registered Nurse and Clinical Lead at Condobolin Aboriginal Health Service, Caitlin Foley, said this will not only enhance the availability of clinics, but also improve the overall quality of care provided.
“Being a remote town, access to specialised healthcare services is limited, and this is further compounded by a rising number of pregnancies,” Caitlin said.
“We are experiencing an increased birth rate in the area, and this has placed immense pressure on our current resources and staff, necessitating an urgent expansion of clinics.
“The need was also echoed by patients, who shared their experiences and concerns,” she said.
The local hospital in Condobolin has a Child and Family Health Nurse as well as a Midwife two days per week at the hospital, however the closest delivering hospital is more than 100kms away at Forbes.
When advocating for increased services, Caitlin explained that ensuring timely and quality care in such circumstances is critical for the health of mothers and babies.
“Doubling the obstetric clinics will ensure that pregnant women in Condobolin receive timely and comprehensive care close to home. This will reduce the burden of travelling long distances for appointments, enhance maternal and child health outcomes and foster greater trust in local healthcare systems. It will also provide critical support to families, creating a more resilient community overall,” she said.
Rural Generalist GP Obstetricians, Dr Glenn Pereira and Dr Greg Whittaker, have been conducting regular Outreach antenatal care in Condobolin for the last 15 years.
Dr Pereira agreed that in that time, the need for this service has increased.
“This is in part due to the normal fluctuations in birth rates, but also because of what I think is a relatively high-risk population,” Dr Pereira said.
“Dr Whittaker and I visit monthly. We feel, and Condobolin Aboriginal Medical Service agrees, that two visits a month would probably service the population better.”
This service is supported under the Medical Outreach Indigenous Chronic Disease Program (MOICDP) and funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
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