This week, the Mountain Health Hub at Ulong proudly announces the completion of the new consultation room, marking a significant milestone in its mission to provide essential healthcare services to the residents of Ulong and the Eastern Dorrigo region.
Originally established in April 2021, the Mountain Health Hub has been a vital resource for residents of Ulong and Eastern Dorrigo, offering local access to GP consultations, health checks and crucial support services. The Hub has played a crucial role in addressing healthcare challenges in the area by minimising the need for travel and facilitating early intervention.
Although only 36km from Coffs Harbour, the small village of Ulong is accessible only via one road – Eastern Dorrigo Way – which is often closed due to flooding and damage, leaving it completely isolated.
“This treatment room is the culmination of a 7-year dream to bring health services to our rural mountain communities,” said Carol Cleary, Chair of the Eastern Dorrigo Community Hall Management Committee, owner of Ulong General Store and main driver of the fundraising.
“It would still only be a dream if it wasn’t for the kindness of so many people answering a call and opening their hearts and wallets to allow this to become reality.”
The expansion has been made possible through funding from Healthy North Coast, the NSW Department of Health (secured by Member for Coffs Harbour, Mr Gurmesh Singh), local community donations, and in-kind contributions from tradespeople and suppliers.
The initiative has been coordinated by the Eastern Dorrigo Community Hall Facility Management Committee, with the Hall being a City of Coffs Harbour facility.
Monika Wheeler, CEO of Healthy North Coast, was thrilled to see the extension officially unveiled:
“Supporting access to quality primary health care for regional, remote, and vulnerable communities is a top priority for us.
“Rural and remote communities often face obstacles in accessing health care services, a challenge exacerbated during recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating flooding that has affected our region.
“The Mountain Health Hub will not only enhance access to care but also improve patient experiences by providing a familiar and trusted environment for health care delivery.
“Congratulations to everyone who has helped bring this vision to fruition. Ms Cleary, Dr Jay Ruthnam, who provides medical outreach at the clinic, and all of those involved.”
The journey to expand the Mountain Health Hub dates back to early 2017, when efforts were initiated to address the healthcare needs of the Eastern Dorrigo area. Through collaborative efforts and community engagement led by Ms Cleary, the Hub has evolved from providing basic first aid training to offering comprehensive healthcare services, providing a place for GPs, nurses and other health professionals to deliver quality care.
The Mountain Health Hub represents a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the importance of accessible health care in rural and remote areas. As it continues to grow and evolve, the Hub will remain a vital community asset, servicing the healthcare needs of the Eastern Dorrigo region.
Additional info:
- Healthy North Coast has contributed funding of around $25,000 for the Mountain Health Hub, made possible through their supporting access to care for vulnerable populations.
- Dr Jay Ruthnam, from Northside Health in Coffs Harbour, has been visiting the Mountain Health Hub since April 2021. His monthly visits are always fully booked, with many residents having had previously undiagnosed health issues identified and treated.
- Allied health services such as Women’s Health, Mission Australia and NSW Health Disaster Recovery nurses have also made regular visits to care for Eastern Dorrigo residents.
- The high standard of fit-out is thanks to the generous donations of Deidre McInherney-Nash from Your Family Practice in Laurieton, who donated a wealth of equipment, including a vaccine fridge, hydraulic beds, trollies and treatment chairs.