News

In fantastic news for the community of Balranald, especially in the lead up to Christmas and the new year, General Practitioner Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam has opened his books, six months after the community’s long serving General Practitioner, Dr Zotov retired.  

Dr Ihuarulam’s commencement is the result of a tremendous collaborative effort between Rural Doctors Network (RDN) and Balranald Shire Council, the Far West Local Health District (FWLHD) and the Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN). 

This collective has supported the recruitment of Dr Vitalis, knowing that this will not only benefit the Balranald Shire but Far West region. 

RDN Recruitment Portfolio Lead, Jess Yuen, said “RDN is delighted to have played a role in helping to secure better healthcare access for the Balranald region by supporting the recruitment and appointment of Dr Ihuarulam, alongside our regional partners at the Shire Council, FWLHD and WNSW PHN.” 

“Having a local doctor serving as part of the fabric of a local community is an invaluable asset for continuity-of-care in a country town, and we look forward to continuing to support Dr Ihuarulam as he establishes his practice at Balranald,” she said. 

Acting General Manager of Balranald Shire Council Glenn Carroll said the recruitment of Dr Ihuarulam is a major boost for the whole Balranald Shire and Far West region in general.

“We are extremely excited that we can announce we’ve secured a new GP in Balranald, who will service the 1,100-1,200 people that need primary care services in the Shire.

“Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam’s commencement provides a real a boost, particularly to the business sector as people will no longer have to travel out of town to access GP services,” Glenn said.

Brad Porter, CEO of WNSW PHN said Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam’s passion for aged care and health outcomes for Aboriginal and regional communities is a real asset to Balranald with flow on impacts for surrounding communities.

“Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam has already committed to providing GP Services to Bidgee Haven Retirement Hostel residents.

“He also wants to expand his services to neighbouring areas and partner with Aboriginal Health organisations in the future, which is a real asset to the community,” Brad said.

Dr Ihuarulam is providing General Practice Services from the rooms at the Balranald Multipurpose centre.