Five individuals and teams, covering general practice, pharmacy, nursing, respite and multidisciplinary teams are Western Australia’s finalists in the Stronger Medicare Awards.
In Medicare’s 40th year, the Stronger Medicare Awards recognise and honour Medicare Champions from around Australia: outstanding individuals and practices that provide exceptional care, embrace innovation, and work together to improve the health of their community.
More than 140 nominations were submitted from every state and territory, which were then assessed by an expert panel of five independent, pre-eminent individuals from the primary care sector, including a consumer representative.
The five Western Australian finalists have been recognised for their significant contributions, including providing wraparound support for vulnerable communities, providing health and social services to homeless people, providing quality healthcare in the regions, supporting LGBTQIA+ patients and delivering quality health care to First Nations communities.
Western Australia’s finalists are:
- Dr Lorraine Anderson, Medical Director, Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services
- Gabrielle Sepe, Practice Nurse Manager, Rockingham Medical Centre, Rockingham
- Laura Stewart, Pharmacist and Proprietor, Pharmacy 777
- Medical Respite Centre, Perth
- Pramana Medical Centre, Gosnells.
The finalists will be celebrated, and Medicare Champions announced, at the Stronger Medicare Awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra on 4 November 2024.
For further information on the awards visit health.gov.au/medicare-turns-40/stronger-medicare-awards.
A media kit with details, photos, patient testimonials and quotes from the finalists is available, upon request.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“Western Australians are tremendously fortunate to have so many great doctors, nurses, mental health and other health professionals working to keep them healthy and out of hospital, day in and day out.
“There are many people and practices working outside of hospitals in health settings in Western Australia who go above and beyond to support their patients.
“I would like to congratulate these finalists and acknowledge their commitment. They demonstrate selfless service, commitment to excellence, and passion for their patients and community.”