Providing free healthcare for Tasmanians doing it tough
BY LERISSE SMITH
A medical lifeline for people suffering hardship in the heart of Tasmania’s Glenorchy community is giving dignity to those who need it the most.
The Salvation Army’s Doorways program in Glenorchy has joined forces with the Moreton Medical Group to facilitate providing free healthcare to people who are unable to access a general practitioner (GP).
It has also proven to be life-changing for those who are unable to afford medical care.
“Nurse Practitioner Kristina (Kris) Mullins and her team are nothing short of amazing,” said Shelley Hyland, Coordinator of Doorways Glenorchy.
“They treat a range of medical issues, provide scripts and refer to specialist health services to community members who are unable to access a GP. Kris and her team are extremely professional and passionate about their work and have a great ability to connect with financially disadvantaged and vulnerable community members. They take time to really listen and have developed a clear understanding of environmental issues impacting patient’s health concerns, including primary homelessness.
Every Wednesday afternoon, The Moreton Medical Group’s mobile outreach service operates out of the Glenorchy City Council’s lawns at the rear entrance of The Salvation Army’s Glenorchy City Corps.
Moreton Medical Group is partially funded by the Tasmanian Department of Health and Primary Health Tasmania, with the service operating in Hobart and surrounding precincts at several locations for more than eight years.
“It has gained a great deal of respect and a fantastic reputation,” Shelley commented.
“Many of their patients may not seek medical treatment if it were not for this service or may wait until an emergency situation arises before calling on an ambulance or presenting at Emergency Response (ER) at the local hospital. The Salvation Army’s involvement with the Moreton Medical Group is extremely positive.”
The Doorways program has workers who take bookings on behalf of the service and provide soft referrals. The workers also attend appointments with those engaging in case work where appropriate.
Glenorchy City Corps hosts several internal social programs including Doorways, Financial Capability Program, The Couch (Engaging with International Community Members), Street to Home (Primary Homeless Service), and The Bridge Program (Day support for Community Members experiencing issues with Alcohol and Other Drugs).
The Moreton Medical Group complements The Salvation Army programs and greatly assists in providing a holistic approach to people engaging with the Army’s services.
“We are truly blessed to have them serving alongside us in our community,” Shelley said.
For Kris, health is not only being free from disease but a whole state of wellbeing.
“Working with The Salvation Army has meant a collaborative approach to client management that addresses not only the immediate health needs of the community but the underlying causes,” she said.
“Having collaboration and open referrals to organisations such as the Glenorchy City Corps provides a wrap-around service for those most in need. Through this, we are able to work together to ensure better outcomes for clients while also supporting the community.”
While Moreton Medical Group works with many organisations and community groups, Kris said working with the Glenorchy Salvos was a joy and a privilege to work with such amazing and dedicated people.
“It truly feels like a family,” she said. “I am forever grateful for their support, knowledge and expertise to help the community.”
