✨ Indigenous Health & Cultural Safety at Willowglen

At Willowglen Medical Centre in Toowoomba, we honour the rich indigenous heritage and lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We are committed to delivering respectful, culturally safe care that supports health equity and empowers First Nations communities.

Our understanding of Indigenous Wellbeing:

• Health is understood holistically, embracing physical, emotional, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions
• Connection to Country, family, and community plays a vital role in wellbeing
• We respect traditional knowledge systems and healing practices

Understanding Addressing Health Inequities

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face reduced life expectancy and higher rates of chronic illness
• Our doctors are committed to supporting Closing the Gap through proactive, inclusive care
• We stay informed on the social determinants of health, such as housing, education, and access to culturally appropriate services

We Deliver Culturally Safe Care

• We provide care that is free from bias and racism, welcoming diverse worldviews.
• Our team engages in ongoing cultural awareness training to foster understanding and trust.
• We actively collaborate with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) like Carbal  and Indigenous-led health initiatives

Chronic Disease in Indigenous Communities

• High Burden of Illness: Chronic diseases account for 70% of the health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians
• Common Conditions:
  • Cardiovascular disease (including coronary heart disease and rheumatic heart disease)
  • Diabetes and chronic kidney disease
  • Respiratory illnesses (e.g. COPD, asthma)
  • Cancer and musculoskeletal conditions
  • Mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance use
• Early Onset: These conditions often develop earlier in life and are more severe in Indigenous populations
• Contributing Factors: Social determinants such as housing, education, income, racism, and access to culturally safe care play a major role.

We under take Indigenous Health Assessments

• Medicare Item 715: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible for a free annual health check to identify risks early and prevent chronic conditions
• Assessment Includes:
  • Physical, psychological, and social wellbeing
  • Blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, and lifestyle factors
  • Referrals for follow-up care (e.g. podiatry, dietetics, mental health)
• Follow-Up Services:
• Up to 10 nurse-led follow-ups per year (Item 10987)
• Up to 5 allied health sessions annually

Continuity of Care

• Why It Matters:
  • Builds trust and strong relationships
  • Improves coordination across providers
  • Supports self-management and long-term outcomes
• Challenges:
  • Fragmented care, especially in remote areas
  • Limited access to culturally safe services
  • High turnover of healthcare staff
• Best Practice Models:
• Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs)
• Team Care Arrangements and GP Management Plans
• Birthing on Country and midwifery continuity models.

Willowglen Medical’s Approach

• We support structured chronic disease management plans tailored to Indigenous patients
• We offer annual health checks and follow-up coordination aligned with Medicare guidelines
• We collaborate with local Indigenous health organisations to ensure culturally safe care
• We embed continuity of care into our practice through shared care arrangements, discharge planning, and patient engagement strategies.