GRAMS launches new optometrist for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Geraldton and the Mid West

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Mid West will have access to a new eye health clinic based in Geraldton after an indigenous medical service launched the new program last week. Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (GRAMS) opened the optometrist on Thursday, May 18 providing affordable and accessible primary eye care services for the community. It is the first permanent eyecare facility in an Aboriginal Medical Service in Western Australia. The clinic will be a hub for research, teaching and learning to support and contribute to a strong and sustainable eye health sector in the region. The clinic was established by the University of Western Australia’s Eye Health Centre of WA with the support of The Fred Hollows Foundation, WA Centre for Rural Health and GRAMS. UWA head of optometry professor Garry Fitzpatrick said the clinic was actively recruiting an optometrist to join the team, and the role would involve clinical practice, organising student placements, supervising students, delivering outreach programs and conducting school screenings. “This is a key position at the clinic and a great opportunity for someone to be engaged with the local community and to draw on the expertise and support of the Geraldton Aboriginal Medical Service, UWA’s optometry team and The Fred Hollows Foundation,” he said. GRAMS CEO Deborah Woods said GRAMS was an organisation of Aboriginal people, delivering health services for Aboriginal people in a culturally safe environment. “We would like to acknowledge the partnerships of The Fred Hollow Foundation and the University of Western Australia. GRAMS is extremely excited to be able to deliver next level eye health service to our clients all under one roof,” she said. The Fred Hollows Foundation Indigenous Australia program director Jason Ware said the clinic would make a difference in local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s eye health outcomes. “The Fred Hollows Foundation is committed to supporting Aboriginal community-controlled models of eye care,” he said.