Member for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr MLA, is working to ensure a positive solution in Northampton, following the news its only doctor would be leaving town.
Last week, residents in the town were informed Northampton Doctors Surgery was closing, with patients handed health summaries and told to seek alternative healthcare options.
For Northampton residents, this meant the closest available option was to seek treatment in Geraldton.
Ms Warr said she was disappointed by the result for the community.
“Regional communities require doctors to service their local areas, and it’s deeply concerning to hear Northampton is losing its only doctor,” she said.
“It is clear more needs to be done to support rural doctors to ensure they remain situated within their local communities.
“I’ll be raising this urgently at every level of government to advocate for a solution.”
Initial discussions with stakeholders indicated the issue could have ramifications for the community.
Aside from a 100km round-trip for the residents who can travel to and from Geraldton, those who are physically unable to may be left without basic health care.
“For those juggling work, family schedules, caring for a loved one, limited transport or are homebound, having to travel to Geraldton for appointments isn’t just inconvenient, it can make accessing basic healthcare almost impossible,” Ms Warr said.
“People living in the regions deserve the same access to basic healthcare as the rest of the State.”
Ms Warr has also discussed solutions with stakeholders and will continue to advocate for a positive outcome for residents.
Residents impacted by the surgery’s closure are urged to contact Ms Warr’s office.