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WOMEN'S & CHILDREN'S

GNEETUNG TUKAE

The Gneetung Tukae (meaning Well and Healthy Children) Clinic is the VAHS Maternal & Child Health Program. It has been very successful in the engagement of families in the clinical setting, and staffs are actively participating in outreach programs in the home.

The success of the program is attributed to the Unit encouraging and supporting the collaboration of skills of the Aboriginal Health Worker and non-Aboriginal professionals. This has equipped the Unit with a successful multi-skilled body.

The program is very rewarding for clients and staff with good outcomes achieved in the following activities:

This service includes:

  • Immunization
  • Well Children's Checks
  • Audiology-Healthy Ear Checks
  • Paediatrician
  • Maternal health Nurse
  • Home Visits / Outreach
  • In Home Support
  • Health education
  • Client follow-up
  • Engagement of new families

Audiology Service

The Unit has responsibility also for the VAHS Hearing Program. Rose Dwyer co-ordinated the program and along with the Audiologist, Fiona Power performed hearing tests on adults and children, as a fortnightly service.

All children are recommended to have audiology tests at ages 9 months and 4 years of age.

The Unit is fortunate to have a close relationship with the Royal Children's Hospital and in particular, the Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist, Dr Vorath where VAHS patients are referred to, for further treatment.

Immunisation Program

It is especially heartening to see parents continuing to bring children into the VAHS for vaccination. Two new vaccines were introduced, Neisvac (free for children 12 months and over to protect against meningococcal disease), and Prevenar (free for all children 12 months and over to protect against pneumococcal disease). Parents have accepted the extra vaccines well, thanks to an effective preventative health awareness and promotional program, conducted by the Unit and staff.

The VAHS is a member of the Australian Childhood Immunisation Registrar (ACIR) and this has improved access to children's records, and electronic data entry ensures up to date information for our clients on the ACIR.

Liaison and Links

The Unit has established links with Hospitals, and other health and welfare agencies. The Program has been assisting the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency and the Department of Human Services when protection issues arise. It is called on to work with other agencies in both community and mainstream services. The VAHS has provided those families with intensive support and ongoing assistance, and has involved staff in various teams in the VAHS. This approach ensures that our clients with multiple needs are dealt with in collaboration and co-operation with other health professionals.

In Home Support

The in Home Support program is available to all ATSI families with ATSI children aged 0 - 3 years.

The program has Individual support to assist mothers with parenting skills, assisting families to link into other service. Also group activities include educational programs, playgroups, art and craft activities.

Liaison and Links

The Unit has established links with Hospitals, and other health and welfare agencies. The Program has been assisting the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency and the Department of Human Services when protection issues arise. It is called on to work with other agencies in both community and mainstream services. The VAHS has provided those families with intensive support and ongoing assistance, and has involved staff in various teams in the VAHS. This approach ensures that our clients with multiple needs are dealt with in collaboration and co-operation with other health professionals.