GEGAC’s Primary Health Care team continues to train and upskill, expanding the range of services we can provide to community right here at GEGAC.
Earlier this month a number of our staff learnt Otoscopy, Tympanometry, Audiometry and Otoacoustic Emissions testing techniques.
In plain language that means they learnt how to screen for early signs of middle ear infections and other hearing conditions, which are an issue that too many Aboriginal people experience, particularly children.
The training was part of the EarTrain program, which is provided by TAFE NSW and supported by Hearing Australia.
Under the supervision of Tracy Cunico from Hearing Australia and Jean Tsembis from TAFE NSW, Aboriginal Health Practitioners Kayla Harrison and Leteisha Bryant, Koori Maternity Service Health Worker Samantha Johnstone, Trainee Health Worker Ursula Hood and Health Community Engagement Officer Sophie Ljujic put their new skills to good use, conducting ear and hearing screenings with students at Dala Yooro Kindergarten.
In one test, the children wore headphones and listened for sounds, placing a toy animal or other object in a container when they heard a tone.
Kayla said the end result of training like this was more services, and better services, for Aboriginal people.
“These skills can now be used in the clinic,” she said. “By being able to conduct opportunistic hearing screening, and doing more detailed ear and hearing testing in the 715 health checks, that means we are more likely to catch any issues, particularly with our young ones.”
“Having the practical skills to perform hearing assessments is going to make a real difference in patient care.”
If you’d like to learn more about ear and hearing checks, or to book a free 715 Health Check, just contact our Aboriginal Health Team on 5150 0760 or freecall 1800 844 945.
You can also email medical.reception@gegac.org.au
