A new telehealth service supported by BHP aims to improve the health and wellbeing of women living in Port and South Hedland.

The partnership between Hedland Well Women’s Centre (HWWC) and Perth based Luma for her Health and Wellbeing will provide the Hedland community access to General Practitioners (GPs) specialising in women’s health, located in Luma’s Perth-based offices.

BHP's support has allowed for the purchase and installation of upgraded IT systems, including advanced cyber security programming, internet satellite upgrades and telehealth equipment.

The innovative delivery model will address the shortage of specialised women’s health services available in the Pilbara.

Initially commenced as a six-month pilot, the telehealth program will offer up to sixteen appointments per month to women in the Hedland area.

“It will increase the capacity and offering of GP services in Port and South Hedland, specifically focusing on services which are in high demand for women,” said Kianna Barker, Hedland Well Women’s Centre Chief Executive Officer.

Confidential appointments will be scheduled fortnightly and involve video-enabled telehealth between the HWWC nurse, the client and a Luma GP.

Appointments will cover a range of services including contraceptive counselling and prescription, sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening, hormone related consultations, and management of conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

“This is an important advancement in providing accessible high-quality specialised healthcare to women in the Hedland community,” Kianna said.

Hedland Well Women’s Centre is a not-for-profit organisation offering support for women aged 16 and over to reduce the incidence of disease and actively improve the health and wellbeing of women and their families in the Hedland area.

The Centre operates on a social model that is non-judgmental, non-discriminatory, accessible, and affordable.

BHP Manager WA Community Rachel Donkin said: “We are committed to improving the availability of health and community services in Port Hedland.”

“This program will increase access to holistic health care and offer women support for reproductive health concerns and during pregnancy.”