General News
6 December, 2024
WWHS to take over maternal child health services in Yarriambiack
Formal discussions between Yarriambiack Shire Council and West Wimmera Health Service (WWHS) have begun in relation to maternal child health (MCH) services transitioning into the hands of WWHS.
WWHS currently delivers MCH services within the Hindmarsh Shire, covering pregnancy care, post birth care, child health checks and parenting support while also offering Hindmarsh Day Stay and Positive Parenting Centre supporting families with any parenting issues that arise with their baby or toddler.
“This service has been a game changer for parents in the Wimmera and Southern Mallee, who no longer have to travel too much further afield for support”, WWHS CEO Ritchie Dodds said.
"WWHS provides additional services for families, including allied health professionals such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, social workers and early parenting practitioners."
Yarriambiack Shire Council CEO Tammy Smith said council wishes to enhance MCH services across the shire and recongises they "cannot offer support services that complement MCH services".
“They also do not have in-house capacity to offer clinical governance support and guidance within this specialised healthcare area," she said.
“As a highly reputable health service, WWHS is better placed to support our staff now and into the future."
WWHS has confirmed they can offer the services across the whole shire and do not wish to change the structure of the current service delivery model.
“WWHS wishes to retain the services of the council staff, who are highly respected within the Yarriambiack community, and will continue to offer the services in Minyip, Murtoa, Rupanyup, Warracknabeal, Beulah, Hopetoun, Patchewollock, Tempy, Yaapeet and Woomelang," Mr Dodds said.
Mrs Smith said council is committed to improving the outcomes for their youngest residents across the shire and region ensuring every family has access to essential high-quality early years health services.
"To achieve this, we believe it is necessary to have a champion provider, supported by the council, to deliver these crucial services and enhance the outcomes for our children," she said.
The transition is proposed to happen by April 1, 2025, with the council now seeking feedback from the community on this proposal.
Feedback can be lodged via the 'Have Your Say' portal on council's website or alternatively, it can be sent marked attention to the CEO, Yarriambiack Shire Council to council's PO box address: PO Box 243 Warracknabeal 3393.
Feedback will close on Monday January 20, 2025, at 5pm.