Mingenew travelling GP service can’t visit unless WA Country Health Service restores lost internet connection

Mingenew residents face losing access to medical services unless a remote internet connection is restored promptly, after the recent transition of management. WA Country Health Service took over Silverchain Remote Area Nursing Posts at four regional towns in the Mid West last month, announcing there would be a “smooth transition” and no impact to services. But Midwest Aero Medical Group, which services Mingenew once a fortnight and relies on internet connectivity, lost access during the transition, raising concerns about whether the healthcare service would continue. Doctors have said they will not travel to Mingenew on their next scheduled visit on Monday, April 15 unless a stable internet connection is restored. According to Opposition Leader Shane Love, the town would be without a doctor until the issue was resolved, but WACHS claims to have addressed the connectivity issue. “We were assured that there would be no loss of services and I’m hopeful that they will stick to that promise,” Mr Love said. “It’s very, very concerning that we’re now in a situation where that commitment has not been met.” A WACHS spokesperson said it was fixing an unforeseen technical issue, which would be solved before it impacted the GP service. “WA Country Health Service is finalising a solution and does not expect any impact to GP services,” the spokesperson said. “It’s important to note this was an unforeseen technical issue.” It’s understood a solution has been implemented and site testing would be undertaken on Monday. Midwest Aero Medical Group was contacted for comment.