Armajun Aboriginal Health Service will be the local region’s primary health care provider for Aboriginal people in the 2017-18 year, after receiving almost $2.6 million of federal funding.
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The Inverell-based company is currently providing medical services out of the Pat Dixon Medical Centre.
Armajun chief executive Debbie McCowen said the new funding secured Armajun’s services to the region.
“This means we’re here to stay,” she said.
The provider met with the Armidale Aboriginal community on Wednesday last week to discuss the changes.
Armajun’s contract with the Armidale Aboriginal Medical Service board, who control the Pat Dixon building, has expired.
The two boards are now negotiating a new service agreement that would see Armajun continue to provide services for the next three years.
Armidale AMS board chair Rhonda Kitchener said the board would meet on Friday to make a decision on the new service agreement.
“I’ve got no objection to going with Armajun,” she said.
If the two boards fail to reach an agreement, Armajun will leave the Pat Dixon centre and provide service independently from another building.
New AMS board member Steve Widders asked about 30 senior Aboriginal community members in attendance whether they supported Armajun to stay in the area.
They voted unanimously in favour of Armajun continuing their services and the Armidale board representatives told Walcha News they would support Armajun to continue their service out of the Pat Dixon Medical Centre.
Armajun is forming an regional advisory committee to inform the Inverell-based board on important local issues.
They are seeking two representatives each from Walcha, Armidale, Guyra, Uralla, and the Armidale AMS board.
To apply or for more information visit the Pat Dixon Medical Centre or email Debbie McCowen at dmccowen@armajun.org.au.
Applications close on Friday, November 4.
