SUPPORT for Cardwell Family Practice has continued since the service was picked up by the Townsville Hospital and Health Services (THHS) recently with Cassowary Coast Regional Council providing $20,000 in funding towards locum accommodation costs.
The funding agreement with THHS will support the ongoing provision of primary health care services for Cardwell and the surrounding community.
The Health Service purchased the Cardwell Family Practice in September this year, with a commitment to continue operating the clinic in the short term.
As providing GP services is not the normal remit or responsibility of THHS, they requested financial support from Cassowary Coast Regional Council for locum accommodation costs for a minimum period of six months.
Under the arrangement, council will not have any responsibility for direct lease arrangements but will assist with locating a suitable property in Cardwell for the locum and provide local liaison and/or facilitation if required.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Mark Nolan explained how council is stepping up to ensure the community’s immediate health services are met while efforts continue in keeping this issue on the State and Federal government agenda.
“Since the clinic’s planned closure in September there has been a whole of community response to keep it open,” he said.
“Council has played an important role in this response which has enabled the clinic to remain open with the support of State and Federal Governments and agencies.
“Direct contribution and involvement in primary health care has not traditionally been within the remit of Council in the past.”
Mayor Nolan said access to health services was one of the top priorities in the 2022 Community Scorecard and council is committed to delivering innovative and collaborative solutions that meet the community’s needs.
“We extend our appreciation and thanks to Townsville Hospital and Health Services, the team at Cardwell Family Practice and all stakeholders who are contributing to seeking long term primary health care solutions in Cardwell for the Cardwell community,” Mayor Nolan said.
Keep up with the latest news in Cairns and the Far North, and check out some of our top stories this week: Knuth questions validity of speed cameras and The Summer Show marks end of 2023 exhibition season.