Aboriginal Health Practitioner (Identified Position)

Summary:

The Aboriginal Health Practitioner (Identified Position) will support and assist the Midwives to provide local indigenous families with the best possible management of normal pregnancy and the identification of high-risk pregnancies with referral to the correct level of care. The Aboriginal Health Practitioner will have responsibility for providing post-natal care and education in the areas of nutrition, contraception, and infant health needs.

In addition, the Aboriginal Health Practitioner will support and assist the Maternal & Child Health Nurses in providing specialised care and support to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children and their families from birth to school entry. The primary purpose of the Maternal & Child Health Nurse Program is to promote the health and well-being of Aboriginal mothers and children, and to address any specific health concerns or challenges faced by the Aboriginal community.

Responsibilities:

Under the direction and supervision, the key responsibility areas for this position are to:

• Deliver culturally appropriate information on topics such as prenatal care, breastfeeding, nutrition, immunisations, safe sleep practices, injury prevention, and child development milestones.
• Provide health promotion and education to Aboriginal mothers, families, and the community.
• Liaise with other health, welfare, and educational professionals when particular needs are identified to ensure appropriate and accurate referrals.
• Actively promote social inclusion for families through community involvement, first parent groups, sleep and settling groups, toddler parent groups, playgroups and the promotion of community programs and resources.
• Advocate for the health and well-being of Aboriginal mothers, infants, and children within the healthcare system. Work to ensure culturally safe and appropriate care is provided, addressing any gaps or barriers that may exist.
• Assist with the health screening of mothers and children.
• Work with local Koori women in accessing mainstream maternity services, advocate on their behalf, and liaise with other health professionals.
• Undertake 715 health checks.
• Participate in required training, professional development and supervision.
• Work closely with community organisations and support services to enhance health outcomes for Aboriginal families.
• On call component for intrapartum (labour and birth support) support.
• Maintain accurate records, case notes, documentation, and data management systems in accordance with organisational standards.
• Contribute positively to workplace culture, continuous improvement activities, and organisational objectives.
• Undertake other duties appropriate to the traineeship level as required.

Qualifications:

• Aboriginal Heath Practitioner qualification or willingness to obtain.
• Current Working with Children’s Check.
• Satisfactory Criminal History Check.
• Current Victorian Drivers License.
• Satisfactory drug and alcohol testing screening
• Immunisation in line with Ramahyuck Staff Immunisation Policy