This week we’re celebrating Apunipima’s Health Workers as part of World Health Worker Week. Apunipima’s model of care is Health Worker led, meaning our Aboriginal Health Workers and Aboriginal Health Practitioners play such an important role in providing culturally safe and appropriate care for those who visit our clinics.
They are the face of Apunipima in our communities, encouraging community to get their 715 Health Check if they’re due for one, checking in on Elders, ensuring people can get to the clinic for their appointments and providing guidance during visits with doctors. We also have Health Workers in various programs and projects across the organisation, providing much needed support and knowledge to help implement important health initiatives throughout the Cape.
“The most rewarding part is being able to help the community and seeing the positive health changes overtime.”
Meet Emma, one of Apunipima’s Aboriginal Health Workers based in Coen. Emma has spent the past four years supporting her community through culturally safe and respectful care. Inspired by the stories of her Aunty, Norma Tranby, and her Grandmother, Verna Singleton—both strong leaders in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care from the early days—Emma knew she wanted to follow in their footsteps. Their legacy, well known across Cairns and Cape York, continues to inspire her work in remote health and caring for mob.
“My interest in health was influenced by my family’s strong connection to Aboriginal health, which motivated me to pursue a role where I could support access to care and contribute to improved health outcomes for our people.”
Mardi is Team Lead for Apunipima’s Integrated Team Care (ITC) program.
With a background as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner and around eight years working in health, Mardi plays an important role in coordinating care for people living with chronic conditions in Cape York. From prioritising referrals to working closely with internal teams and external providers, Mardi is passionate about supporting access to care and improving health outcomes for our people.
“The most rewarding part is helping our people and having a positive impact on community health.”
Meet Carol, Aboriginal Health Practitioner (AHP) working in the Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) space, supporting Cape York communities through education and awareness. With 13 years’ experience in the health sector, Carol works in communities to help people better understand RHD, how it can be prevented, and how we can look after our hearts.
We’d like to thank all our amazing Health Workers throughout Cairns and the Cape – Emma, Mardi, Shontelle, Shaniqua, Kirsten, Denise, Carol, Jahnesta, Natalia and Helen – thank you all for the work you put in each day helping Cape York people live healthy, happy lives.
