The 两性色午夜 Council has appointed Tim O鈥橞rien as the new General Manager of 两性色午夜 Health Service (NHS), marking an important step toward addressing the distinct health challenges faced by Yarnangu on the 两性色午夜 Lands.
With decades of experience in Aboriginal health across regional, metropolitan, and remote settings, Tim brings a strategic focus to NHS’s unique mission of delivering a full spectrum of health services鈥攆rom acute care to public health initiatives鈥攊n one of the most remote regions of Australia.
O鈥橞rien will oversee NHS鈥檚 three service delivery arms鈥擯rivate Health, Primary Healthcare, and Public Health鈥攎anaging 45 funding agreements totalling $30 million annually. These encompass hospital and clinic oversight, aged care services, community health clinics, dental and mental health support, and public health initiatives like environmental health.
As General Manager, Tim鈥檚 focus is on driving a proactive approach to health and continuing the transition of the NHS to a more visionary and less reactionary funding model that can help address the deepest health needs on the Lands.
鈥淣HS is a vital service for Yarnangu on the Lands and the distinct health challenges they face,鈥� Tim said.
鈥淣HS is unique in providing such a breadth of services under one umbrella,鈥�
鈥淭his remote geography creates challenges but also offers a rare opportunity to merge acute care with proactive public health strategies,鈥� Tim said.
鈥淏y focussing on preventive measures, we can help healthy Yarnangu enjoy even stronger health rather than predominantly reacting to acute needs. This is not just achievable鈥攊t鈥檚 essential,鈥� Tim said.
鈥淲ith the health needs of 1,800 Yarnangu spread across an area larger than Victoria, NHS faces unique challenges and opportunities. While we will continue to provide acute services across the region, we can deliver impactful strategies like food and nutrition programs. These efforts can reduce disease prevalence, improve school attendance, and lower crime rates鈥攐utcomes that are not just achievable but essential.鈥� Tim said.
By fostering resilience and stronger communities, these strategies ensure Yarnangu remain strong on Country and thrive in a culture-rich environment.
