About

BNMAC makes a difference by providing comprehensive primary health care services which include medical and dental services, chronic disease management, mental health, and health education programs covering substance use, sexual health and lifestyle management.

National research shows that there are a number of social determinants that impact on a person’s health and that the models of care that respond to a wide range of medical, social and emotional needs are more likely to produce the best results. Research also shows that the Community Controlled primary health care model is highly effective in providing much needed culturally appropriate health services to Aboriginal people.

BNMAC has a strong track record of achieving effective health outcomes for Aboriginal people in the mid-coast and northern rivers districts of NSW. This is evidenced through better than national averages in areas such as immunisation, chronic disease management and preventative health strategies.

Our strong focus on client health assessments is central to our model of care to prevent disease, detect early and unrecognised disease, and promote healthy lifestyles. In 2015 our effectiveness in conducting targeted health checks and assessments with key target groups continue to exceed national averages according to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare National Key Performance Indicators for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary health care data comparison.

Early onset type 2 diabetes is a growing problem in most Australian communities and is therefore a national health priority. If left undiagnosed or poorly managed type 2 diabetes can lead to coronary artery disease, stroke, kidney failure, limb amputations and blindness. Effective management of chronic disease involves frequent monitoring and maintaining a longterm working relation with the client. Bulgarr Ngaru staff have strong ties with the Aboriginal community and are well placed to develop and maintain effective relationships to support a comprehensive health care approach.

Australian guidelines recommend a regime of regular monitoring and collaborative health care and lifestyle management through a General Practitioner Management Plan (GPMP).

Lack of antenatal care during pregancy is an important risk factor contributing to low birth weight.

A first antenatal visit early in the pregnancy may be especially effective in reducing risk of low birth weight babies (Abdal Qadar et al. 2012)

Cervical cancer incidence and mortality are both higher in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander women, with incidence more than twice and mortality five times that of non-indigenous women. (AIHW & AACR 2010)

Cervical screening is recommended every 2 years for most women aged between 18 and 69 years, including women who have been vaccinated against HPV (DOH 2013)

Improve the physical, social, mental, emotional and spiritual health of Aboriginal people in the Clarence Valley.

Our vision is to provide the highest standard of client care whilst incorporating a holistic approach toward diagnosis and management of illness.

We are committed to promoting health, wellbeing and disease prevention to all clients. We do not discriminate in the provision of excellent care and aim to treat all clients with dignity and respect.

Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation (BNMAC) was established in Grafton on the 5th August 1991.

A government inquiry was undertaken in the early 1980’s to investigate the possible effects of the asbestos mine at Baryulgil. The inquiry looked at the ill health and early death of Baryulgil community members and ex-miners and examined the links to the asbestos mining.

The Human Rights Commission handed down its report on the asbestos mining at Baryulgil which confirmed that over exposure to asbestos had contributed significantly to the poor health status of the miners.

The necessity for an Aboriginal Medical Service was stressed by the Baryulgil and Malabugilmah community members, principally to screen the ex-miners for asbestos and other health problems.

Many meetings occurred to discuss the best location for the service. Owing to the fact that many miners had moved from Baryulgil to other locations, it was agreed that a central position was required for the service.

Grafton was decided upon as the most central and suitable location.

Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation aims for:

• Improvements in the health and well-being of the communities BNMAC service.
• Equitable, accessible and professional service that reflects changing social needs and trends.
• Service development to meet local needs in consultation with the community and stakeholders.
• Provision of clinical services and health education programs according to local needs and appropriate standards, guidelines and legislation.
• Formal links with all individuals, organisations and community groups who are relevant to the promotion and delivery of services by BNMAC.
• Efficient and effective management of finances, assets and resources.
• Accountability to funding bodies, stakeholders, clients and communities it services
• Continual improvement in the skills, knowledge and experience of staff and directors to ensure a professional and appropriate standard of service delivery.
• Provide a dynamic, progressive service recognising the differing needs of individuals, communities and health team members that serve them.