The difference Aboriginal Health Practitioners make

Friday 7 August marks National Day of Recognition, where we celebrate the leadership, dedication, and impact of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners in WA Health.

This year's theme, ‘Many paths, many ways’, recognises the diverse journeys that bring people into the profession and the many ways they support patients, families, and communities.

At South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS), investment in a model of care that delivers better outcomes for Aboriginal patients and communities has resulted in 15 Aboriginal Health Practitioners working across key areas, with the workforce continuing to grow.

SMHS Chief Executive Neil Doverty said SMHS is proud to be leading the way in the employment and development of Aboriginal Health Practitioners.

"Aboriginal Health Practitioners bring invaluable cultural knowledge, clinical expertise and community connections that strengthen cultural safety, build trust, and improve the patient experience," said Neil.

"Their contribution is transforming the way we deliver care, and we are committed to supporting and growing this important workforce into the future."

This commitment is supported by the SMHS Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan, which aims to create workplaces and services where everyone feels respected, valued, and safe.

Liana's path as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner

For Liana Prosser, health care means connection, trust, and making people feel safe when they are away from home.

As an Aboriginal woman, Liana feels privileged to support her mob who are often far from home and facing significant health challenges.

"I love being an Aboriginal Health Practitioner because I can provide both clinical care and cultural support to our mob," said Liana. 

"Being able to walk alongside our patients throughout their hospital journey, from admission through to procedures, surgeries, and inpatient recovery, is incredibly rewarding."

The moments that stay with Liana are often the quiet ones – seeing patients arrive feeling frightened and uncertain, then gradually growing in confidence as they build trust.

"One patient from a remote community arrived in Perth for surgery feeling isolated and hesitant to engage with healthcare staff after a previous negative experience," said Liana.

"By taking the time to have a yarn, I was able to advocate for the patient and make sure their voice was heard throughout their treatment. This helped them became more comfortable and engaged in their care."

Supporting better outcomes through cultural understanding

The impact of Aboriginal Health Practitioners extends well beyond the patients they support. Their knowledge and guidance also help colleagues deliver culturally safe care.

Nurse Educator Lucy Soteriou said working alongside Aboriginal Health Practitioners has transformed her practice.

"I appreciate how generous our Aboriginal Health Practitioners are in sharing cultural knowledge and lived experiences, which creates better engagement, stronger relationships, and improved outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities," Lucy said.

"It has deepened my understanding of the lasting impacts of intergenerational trauma and shown me what truly culturally safe care can achieve when we all work together."

Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr Agneta Geldenhuys echoed that sentiment, describing Aboriginal Health Practitioners as invaluable members of the team.

Dr Geldenhuys is committed to ensuring patients clearly understand the care she intends for them and says Aboriginal Health Practitioners play a vital role in supporting communication and cultural understanding for Aboriginal patients.

"No matter how much I try to understand everything about my Aboriginal patients, there is no way that I can get to the level our Aboriginal Health Practitioners bring,” Dr Geldenhuys said."

Aboriginal Health Practitioners are qualified to provide clinical and cultural health care and are regulated through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

Watch this short video to see how Aboriginal Health Practitioner Liana provides culturally safe care.

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