An antenatal clinic providing culturally responsive care to pregnant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women was officially launched as part of South Western Sydney local health district’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.
The specialist Binya Winyangara (Darug language for “pregnant mothers’’) Clinic at Liverpool Hospital will help prepare Aboriginal women for birthing and connect them to health and community services.
The clinic’s Aboriginal registered midwife Kaarina Paasila, said she was both privileged to care for Aboriginal women during this special time in their lives and also loved her role.
“It’s important to make sure Aboriginal women are getting the right care and someone dedicated specifically to give them the confidence that they are being heard and looked after,’’ Ms Paasila said.
“I feel so fortunate to be in this position to be able to offer continuity of care in a way that is culturally sensitive.”
Health district chief executive Amanda Larkin said NAIDOC Week was an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment to reconciliation and Closing the Gap in health care in South Western Sydney.
“NAIDOC Week gives us the opportunity to move forward together with the more than 20,000 Aboriginal people across our region to Close the Gap in health care and life expectancy,’’ Ms Larkin said.
“Our growing range of Aboriginal health services demonstrates the district’s determination to achieve these goals.
“I am very proud of our progress and new services such as the Binya Winyangara Clinic, which is providing outstanding culturally responsive care to Aboriginal women during their pregnancies.’’
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme “Always Was, Always Will Be” recognises the history, culture and accomplishments of the world’s oldest continuing culture.
Other District activities to celebrate NAIDOC Week included the unveiling of an Aboriginal artwork at Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, an Aboriginal Jersey Day at Campbelltown Hospital and the launch of the District’s Didja Know? Cultural Resources for staff members.
NAIDOC Week was held across the nation during November 8-15.
