Service to support people from multicultural backgrounds

A new service aimed at providing healthcare assistance to people from diverse cultural backgrounds is now being trialled in Geelong.

Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) has launched the Multicultural Access Program (MAP), a 12-month pilot that aims to expand access to primary healthcare and improve health and welfare outcomes for people from diverse backgrounds.

The MAP is being delivered by Cultura, which will run the program out of its Community Hub in Norlane.

As part of the program, which launched earlier this month, Cultura will work with both consumers, assisting with service navigation and health education, and local primary care providers, helping to create culturally appropriate services and care.

Cultura will provide consumers with supported referrals into primary health care services, guidance with navigating the health system, and health promotion and education on topics such as sexual and reproductive health, maternal and child health, family violence and vaccinations.

It will also support local primary care health services to enhance their communication practices with people from multicultural communities by providing education to help them understand the unique needs of people from multicultural backgrounds.

WVPHN chief executive officer Craig Wilding said the MAP had been created because Greater Geelong has western Victoria’s highest percentage of people from non-English speaking backgrounds settling here.

“Healthcare accessibility is a big Issue for people from non-English speaking backgrounds, often they can face obstacles when seeking healthcare, whether it be language barriers, unfamiliarity with our health system, or cultural or financial barriers.

“We wanted to create a program that would break down some of these barriers, which Is why we’re delighted Cultura can draw on its expertise in helping diverse communities.”

Cultura chief executive officer Joy Leggo said her organisation was thrilled to be delivering this new program, which aims to streamline referrals and create a coordinated approach that simplifies access to health services for multicultural communities.

“Health literacy is vital for empowering individuals to make informed choices.

“Through the Multicultural Access Program, we are offering personalised support and education so that community members can confidently navigate the healthcare system and advocate for their health needs.

“With this program, we are also focusing on educating healthcare providers about the unique needs of multicultural communities.

“Our goal is to build a healthcare environment that is culturally sensitive and aware of the rights of all individuals, supporting both providers and consumers in meaningful ways.”

Throughout the 12-month trial, WVPHN and Cultura will work together to monitor the use and success of the services, and share knowledge and experiences to deliver more integrated and inclusive primary health care support.