The Liberal National Government will invest $135,000 over two years for a pilot program to support the Central Queensland medical fraternity to better communicate with their colleagues and patients.
Central Queensland Multicultural Association have designed a program to address communication challenges faced by the linguistically-diverse population in the region with the goal of increasing health literacy and enabling consumers to make better informed health decisions.
Minister for Health, Greg Hunt said the Government is committed to improving health services throughout Australia and building a world class health system.
“This program will help to develop a more integrated, culturally connected health network in the region,” Minister Hunt said.
“By delivering our plan for a strong economy we can help support health projects throughout Queensland that Australians want and need.”
Capricornia MP, Michelle Landry, said the programme offered Central Queenslanders from diverse backgrounds better opportunity to be part of the community and to enjoy better health.
“With people for whom English is their second — or sometimes third or fourth — language, trying to access appropriate medical care can be a challenge,” Ms Landry said.
“This pilot programme will help to break down some of the barriers in place that hold people of different backgrounds back from seeking help.”
“We all have our health issues, whether they be chronic or acute, mental or physical, it is vital we are all able to get these conditions dealt with in an appropriate manner.”
“That’s precisely what this programme is about,” Ms Landry said.
The Liberal National Government’s strong economic management ensures the continued record investment of funding into vital health initiatives including mental health, life-saving medicines, Medicare and hospitals.