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RACS ASC 2026
External Independent Evaluation of a Collaborative Paediatric Aboriginal Ear Health Program - Engaging the Future
Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

11:15 am

03 May 2026

Bellevue Ballroom 2

Innovation in Ear Surgery and Indigenous Health

Presentation Description

Institution: University of Western Australia - Western Australia, Australia

The Cockburn Aboriginal Ear Health Program is a collaboration between Cockburn Integrated Health, The Kids Research Institute Australia (TKRI), Moorditj Koort Aboriginal Corporation, TSH, Hearing Australia, Child and Adolescent Health Service, St John of God Health Care (Murdoch and Midland), South Metropolitan Health Service, Rockingham Hospital, Midvale Hub, Oseca Health, Prof Francis Lannigan, A/Prof George Sim, Dr Travis Leahy, Dr Phillip Sale, and Dr Aaron Esmaili to provide timely and culturally secure access to specialist care for Aboriginal children with middle ear disease. The program was initiated following research undertaken by TKRI through the Djaalinj Waakinj Urban Aboriginal Ear Health Program and the recognition that while there was a significant level of middle ear disease identified in the Aboriginal population, there were deficiencies in the service provision available resulting in a range of sequalae that have lifelong consequences for this population group. In consultation with Moorditj Koort Aboriginal Corporation and the Aboriginal Community Advisory Group which guided the Djaalinj Waakinj Program, a service model was put in place that brought together a range of service providers to establish an integrated service to meet community needs. The model includes access to specialist Ear Nose and Throat services, audiology, and surgical care where necessary, along with the cultural and practical support necessary to make the program a success. We present what we believe to be the first external, independent evaluation of such a program from Dr Frank Baughman, School of Population Health, Curtin University. The outcomes of the evaluation have been used to implement further service improvements. The success of the program is testament to the commitment of all service providers and surgeons involved to improve the health and wellbeing of the Aboriginal population.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Prof Francis Lannigan - , Dr Frank Baughman - , A/Prof George Sim - , Dr Travis Leahy - , Dr Phillip Sale - , Dr Aaron Esmaili -