GANDANGARA

LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL

Connect. Belong. Thrive.

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Our Services

Gandangara Health Services provides the highest level of patient care, incorporating a holistic approach to the diagnosis and management of illness. 

When you visit Gandangara Health Services you can expect to be treated with respect and dignity.

Gandangara Health Services is a Bulk Billing practice (for all clients with a Medicare card).

The GP plays a central role in the delivery of health care to the Australian community.  At Gandangara Health Services your GP acts as your first point of contact in matters of personal health, offering many services including:

  • coordinates the care of patients and refers patients to other specialists
  • cares for patients in a whole of person approach and in the context of their work, family and community
  • provides advice and education on health care
  • performs legal processes such as certification of documents or provision of reports in relation to motor transport or work accidents.

If you have a GP or specialist appointment at Gandangara you can be assured that you will receive a reminder SMS the day prior, so please ensure your contact details are up to date!

When you book an appointment at Gandangara Health Services, you are becoming a part of our health community. Our aim is to provide optimal quality care to our community members, partnering with you to get the best outcomes for your health and wellbeing.

Do you require TRANSPORT to your medical appointment? Find out if you are eligible for Gandangara Transport Services.

Phone or Telehealth consults will be available for people experiencing cold or flu symptoms. If you are not vaccinated, please feel comfortable to discuss with one of our GPs, and then if you decide to go ahead we can book you in via our COVID Vaccination Clinic.

 

Please see below list of services that we can offer.

On your GP's recommendation, we can make an appointment for you with a specialist who works in mental health, chronic care or other aspects of your health. Some of the specialists onsite at Gandangara Health Services include:  

  • Exercise physiologist  - who provides an exercise program in the clinic for a broad range of health issues 
  • Gastroenterologist - to diagnose and treat disorders of the stomach and intestines 
  • Paediatrician - for children and their diseases 
  • Podiatrist - who treats foot injuries and ailments 
  • Psychologist - to diagnose and treat psychological problems related to physical and mental health 
  • Psychiatrist - for seniors 
  • Drug and Alcohol Mental Health Nurse - who offers individual help on your recovery journey from drug and alcohol dependency 

 

We also have the following clinics.  

  • Cardiac clinic - to assess, treat and make referrals for heart issues 
  • COVID-19 vaccination clinic 
  • Hearing Australia clinic - to test and treat hearing 
  • Oral health clinic - to assess and treat teeth, gums and overall mouth health 
  • Skin cancer clinic - to diagnose and remove (or refer) for abnormal skin spots 

 

We can arrange for other specialist appointments off-site, including:  

  • Dermatology 
  • Ears, Nose and Throat (ENT) 
  • Gynaecology 
  • Immunology 
  • Neurology 
  • Obstetrics  
  • Occupational Therapy (OT)  
  • Ophthalmology 
  • Radiology 
  • Speech Pathology  
  • Urology 

 

All the GPs and specialists we work with receive cultural capability training. They will treat you with respect and understanding and make sure you feel safe.  

We can provide transport to appointments through the Gandangara Transport Service.  Your Aboriginal Health Outreach Worker can also come with you to your appointment for support. 

We make sure all your GP and specialist appointments are bulk-billed through Medicare. We can provide referrals to other services, such as the Aboriginal Chronic Care Program in South Western Sydney. This program helps First Peoples who have or are at risk of developing a chronic condition, including Type 1 and 2 diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, kidney disease or a mental health condition. 

Antenatal care 
Are you pregnant? Many of our GPs are Shared Care providers. This means that you can choose to have regular antenatal check-ups and appointments at the Gandangara Health Services, instead of going to the public hospitalAntenatal Clinic. Your GP can provide any referrals for ultrasounds or other tests if required. 

Babies and children 
Are you caring for a baby or young child?  

Book in with a GP at Gandangara Health Services to make sure your child gets the best health care and leads a healthy life from a young age. 

In the first 4 years of a child's life, we use the NSW Health Blue Book to keep a record of health check-ups, immunisations and developmental milestones. Our paediatrician can assist with specialist care. 

Marumali also runs community programs that provide cultural education, as well as health awareness and opportunities to link up your family with a supportive community. 

For more information about getting involved with our Women's or Men's groups, please visit the Marumali Programs page or call us on (02) 9601 0700. 

 

We provide a comprehensive Cardiac Health Check to assess any existing or potential risk factors. We discuss your specific health goals and help book any regular follow-up checks. 

The Cardiac Health Check involves: 

  • measuring blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, weight, Body Mass Index 
  • discussing family history, medical history and lifestyle, including diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption. 

The Cardiac Health Check will provide an assessment of your risks of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 5 years.Our GPs and nurses will make a plan to reduce those risks, and also follow up to track your progress. 

 To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

 

The GPs and health staff at GHS care for our community over the span of their lifetime. From infants and children, to our Elders. We walk with you on your health journey, side-by-side, and work with you to set goals for your health and wellbeing, and then achieve those goals.

 

Many of our community have a variety of chronic and complex health needs, and so our staff have become very good at working alongside you to get you the care that you require, and allow you to achieve the best outcomes possible. This can include referrals to other services such as the Aboriginal Chronic Care Program, to our variety of visiting Allied Health and Specialists services, or to our external partner services. Our close partnerships with Marumali and the Aboriginal Chronic Care Program mean that your financial situation should not impact your ability to access the care that you need, as they can assist with health brokerage to find more affordable services, and assist with payments where needed.

 

A new initiative led by our GPs and Nurses is the Diabetes Yarning Circle. This group is for people with Diabetes, or caring for someone with diabetes, regardless of which Type and how well you are managing your condition. We have a variety of health professionals involved, including guest dieticians and staff from Diabetes NSW. We encourage people who are coping well to come along to the group too, so that they may offer mentoring to other group members.

You can get COVID-19 vaccinations here at the Gandangara Health Services, available free to everyone over 5 years old.  

We administer the Pfizer 12+, Pfizer 5-11 years and Moderna vaccines. All our vaccines are ATAGI-approved, safe and effective, including for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please make an appointment with your GP before making a vaccination appointment. 

The Pfizer 12+ vaccine requires two doses and a booster, with the second dose to be administered 3 weeks after the first, and then another booster 3 months later. The Pfizer 5-11 years vaccine requires two doses, with the second dose to be administered 8 weeks after the first. 

To find out more or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au  

 

We have a gym on-site with a qualified exercise physiologist who can help you to exercise at your own pace, work towards a goal or better manage your health 

Some of the programs include: 

  • Individual sessions 
  • Walking groups 
  • Group exercise classes 

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

With a referral from your GP, you can have an appointment with our visiting gastroenterologist, who diagnoses, prevents, investigates and treats gastrointestinal conditions, affecting the oesophagus, stomach and intestines.  

To find out more or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au  

 

The Hearing Australia Clinic at the Gandangara Health Services is for people between 3 and 25 years old, or 50 years and over.  

Hearing loss is when your ability to hear is reduced. You might find it difficult to clearly hear people speak, as well as hear other sounds in your life. Hearing loss is caused by many factors, but age and exposure to loud noise are the two most common.  

Over half the population aged between 60 and 70 has hearing loss. This increases to more than 70 per cent for people over the age of 70 and 80 per cent of those over the age of 80. 

To find out more or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au  

Medical procedures in the health clinic 

If your GP recommends you have a procedure, we can perform many of them right here in our health clinic. Please make an appointment between 8 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, with our Registered Nurses and Aboriginal Health Practitioners.  

Some simple procedures that our clinic offers include: 

  • Wound Care - swabbing, cleaning, lancing and dressing wounds. Our nurses are trained in wound management and will help with your wound care after surgery, chronic wounds such as ulcers and pressure sores, as well as acute wounds from accidents. We have a general stock of wound cleansing and dressing supplies and can get special dressings and cleansers if required. We can also use the dressings supplied by the hospital or a specialist.  
  • Pathology - blood tests. We have three nurses trained to collect blood. Please check whether you need to fast overnight before your blood test. We will notify you of your results by phone, or your GP may ask you to attend the clinic for treatment.  
  • Immunisation - We provide children with all the required childhood immunisations at the clinic. We also do adult immunisations, including COVID-19 vaccinations, some travel immunisations and Flu vaccinations. Seasonal flu vaccination is a safe and convenient way to protect yourself from the full effects of flu season. 
  • Minor Surgical Procedures - such as biopsies, removal of skin lesions, sutures, insertion/removal of Implanon (contraception) 
  • Spirometry - to check lung capacity and strength 
  • ECG - to check the electrical currents in the heart 
  • Nebulisers - a vaporised medication to help with symptoms of acute or chronic breathing conditions 
  • Ear syringing - cleaning of excess wax from the ear canal with warm water 

Your oral health is important in your overall health and wellbeing. Healthy teeth and gums are important both mechanically and aesthetically. We hold an Oral health clinic for First Peoples on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month and bookings are essential.  

Regular dental check-ups are important to make sure your mouth, teeth and gums are healthy. Our dentist can provide: 

  • advice about tooth brushing techniques and the most suitable toothpaste to use 
  • early detection or possible signs of oral cancer 
  • advice on preventing dental problems that cause trouble eating, sleeping, attending school or going to work 
  • individual treatment 
  • refer you to appropriate services depending on your needs 

To find out more or see if you are eligible, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au  

Our visiting paediatrician comes to Gandangara Health Services once a month. Your GP will provide a referral for your child if required. 

Our paediatric services include: 

  • child developmental assessment – to assess your child’s physical, mental and cognitive development 
  • child behavioural assessment – to look at your children’s language difficulties or disruptive behaviour 
  • referral to therapeutic services – such as occupational therapy or speech pathology 

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

Our podiatrist treats conditions affecting feet and legs. This includes conditions caused by:  

  • bone and joint disorders, such as arthritis,  
  • muscular and soft tissue issues 
  • neurological and circulatory diseases 
  • foot injuries 

They can also diagnose and treat any foot skin and nail disorders, such as corns, calluses and ingrown toenails.   

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

As you get older, you face many challenges and sometimes it’s difficult to stay mentally healthy and strong. Feeling sad or worried can stop you from getting the most out of life. We are here to help. We work with a psychiatrist and a nurse who specialise in older people’s mental health.  

Many older people have mental health issues at some point, which may be due to: 

  • illness 
  • frailty and loss of independence 
  • grief and loss 
  • financial stress 
  • change in living arrangements 
  • increasing social isolation 

Speak to your GP about your feelings and they can refer you to the Older People’s Mental Health Team, who will make an appointment to develop your Mental Health Care Plan. 

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au. 

 

Many people in our community struggle with mental health difficulties, relationship conflict, trauma and disassociation. We have an experienced psychology counselling service with diverse knowledge and understanding of psychological needs. We are here to help everyone, of all ages. This includes:  

  • individuals, couples and families 
  • children, adolescents, adults and the elderly  
  • people who are culturally and racially diverse 

Your growth and wellness are our number one priority. We will guide you through all of life’s challenges with utmost attention and care. 

Our psychological counselling will help you develop awareness and how to use your own strengths to reduce factors that affect a healthy daily life. 

Our psychology team can help with: 

  • recent grief 
  • inability to wind down 
  • anxiety 
  • feeling down 
  • trauma  
  • not sleeping well 
  • increased alcohol use or drug use 
  • bullying 
  • lack of enjoyment of activities, such as stopping exercise 
  • self-isolation, not spending time with family or friends 
  • relationship issues 
  • friendship issues. 

Speak to your GP about getting a Mental Health Care Plan. Then make an appointment to see one of the psychologists.  Also, consider attending a Social and Emotional Wellbeing Group on Fridays to gain community support and increase your coping skills. 

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

Taking care of your health starts with prevention. We offer many services to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.  

Start with a 715 Aboriginal Health Assessment. This will enable you to access Marumali services, which run programs and events, and can help pay for specialist appointments. 

For chronic care needs, your GP might recommend a GP Management Plan, which gives you access to the Aboriginal Chronic Care Program. This program assists you in paying for appointments and necessary equipment. 

We can help you obtain a referral for cervical, bowel and breast screening, as well as other types of testing for cancers.We also run a regular Skin cancer clinic. Our Gandangara Cancer Screening Toolkit gives you more information. Early detection means more treatment options and better outcomes. 

715 health check 
This is a comprehensive annual health check for any First Nations person of any age. The appointment usually takes 30-45 minutes and is a great way to help your GP identify any potential risks for illnesses or chronic conditions.  

If you already have a chronic condition, your GP can see how you’re progressing. If they find any warning signs, GPs can treat the condition early. This can make a big difference to your long-term health. 

At the appointment, your GP will:  

  • ask questions about diet, medications, family medical history, physical activity, mental wellbeing and immunisation  
  • measure your weight, height, hearing, eyesight and blood pressure 
  • create a personalised health plan with you. 

Your GP may refer you for other tests. After your health check, and with your agreement, your GP may refer you to up to 10 free follow-up services or specialists.  

Aboriginal Chronic Care Program  

We can assist you if you are a First Nations person in South Western Sydney who has a chronic condition or is at risk of developing one. The Aboriginal Chronic Care Program (ACCP) is for those with a health condition that has affected someone for 6 months or longer. Some examples of chronic conditions are: 

  • diabetes Type 1 and 2 
  • cancer 
  • cardiovascular disease 
  • respiratory disease 
  • kidney disease 
  • mental health 

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

About two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. It’s our most common cancer. It’s important to have regular skin checks to recognise and treat abnormal moles early before they become cancerous and remove melanomas. 

Our Skin Cancer Clinics run on Tuesdays and Fridays by appointment. Our specially-trained GP will examine your skin using a Dermatoscope. This is a non-invasive and painless examination.  If the Doctor finds anything suspicious, they may take a biopsy, a small sample of cells and tissue, to be sent to the laboratory for testing. 

To find out more or to book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au  

We have a strong Social and Emotional Wellbeing team at Gandangara Health Services, offering a range of services so that you can connect, belong and thrive. We aim to create a welcoming space, so you can feel comfortable and be yourself. 

Please visit the Community Healing Centre to learn about our services, such as yarning circles, mindful meditation, art and music therapy. 

Many health and wellbeing concerns can be sensitive to talk about. All of our staff are professional and capable.However, sometimes, you may prefer to speak with a man or woman GP or nurse.   

We can also link you with both Men's and Women's groups. These may include social, cultural and craft groups, to learnskills such as weaving and painting, or opportunities to participate in events such as breast screening, bushwalks, BBQs, museum outings, movie days and more. 

For more information about getting involved with our Women's or Men's groups, please visit the Marumali Programs page or call us on (02) 9601 0700. 

 

Ask us about getting a FREE 715 Aboriginal Health Assessment! This will enable us to create a personal and targeted care plan to achieve your health goals.

After your consultation with our health care workers, our care does not stop. We ensure that you have a plan of action agreed with your Doctor and will assist you with any follow-up including REFERRALS if you are in need of specialist care. Our helpful Reception staff will assist you to make appointments and arrange transport if necessary.

You will also be able to register with Marumali and have access to a range of social and community events, as well as health services. Get started on your targeted health journey today!

To find out more about our services or book an appointment, please give our friendly team a call today. Please call us on (02) 9601 0700 or email health@glalc.org.au 

Register for a Health Service