Aboriginal Health: GP Referrals
General practitioners (GPs) working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people need a unique and compassionate approach. They require cultural competency and a focus on building relationships on trust.
We have an extensive network of GPs in Western Sydney. Western Sydney ITC is here to support all GPs in the region. We work closely with each one to ensure the sensitive, culturally appropriate needs of our First Nation clients and their communities are met. Our GPs also understand that a patient’s wellbeing is more than their physical symptoms. Our approach includes their holistic wellbeing too, so we are conscious of the spiritual, emotional, cultural and community connections.
Western Sydney ITC aims to close the gap in healthcare by addressing the challenges and barriers experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients with chronic health conditions, for improved health and wellbeing outcomes.
Our program of work includes Care Coordination, Supplementary Services and Outreach Work.
For mental health issues and concerns, please refer to the following resources:
- GP Psychiatry Support Line – Professional psychiatric support for General Practitioners
- Paramatta Head to Health – Free walk-in centre and phone line 1 800 595 212 for 18 and over
- WentWest (WSPHN) Commissioned Mental Health Services – other free services available in Western Sydney
- HealthPathways – Psychology and Counselling – PMHC Guidance and referral information for General Practitioners.
Cultural Competency
Our team works to improve the cultural competency of your practice through activities that lead to better understanding between staff and patients. Activities include, but are not limited to:
- organising cultural awareness training for practice staff and/or GPs
- encouraging uptake of Indigenous MBS items such as 715 health checks and ensuring follow-up services are utilised
- helping practices create a more welcoming environment e.g. Indigenous artwork and posters.

Our Care Coordinators
Our Care Coordinators are qualified health workers, such as nurses, accredited health professionals and Aboriginal Health Practitioners and experienced community workers. They work collaboratively with GPs in accordance with patient care plans.
Care Coordinators provide the following assistance to clients by helping them to:
- understand their chronic health condition and how to manage it
- understand the care plan created by their doctor, and how to use it
- develop chronic condition self-management skills
- provide updates and feedback to their doctor on their care plan progress.

Our outreach work
Our Outreach Workers encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients to access culturally competent health services and have strong links to the community they work in.
Outreach Workers provide non-clinical services including:
- information and resources about locally available health services
- referrals to culturally appropriate health care providers and services
- information and assistance with travel options to and from health appointments
- support when attending health appointments, such as GPs, specialists, allied health providers and diagnostic tests
- assistance with effective communication between clients and the health care providers
- information about local community services and activities.
