Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS) provides culturally responsive health care and wellbeing services for Aboriginal, Martu and Nyiyaparli people across Newman, Jigalong, Parnngurr, Punmu and Kunawarritji. As a community-controlled health service, we work alongside our communities to improve health outcomes, strengthen wellbeing and support healthier futures for current and future generations.
Our team delivers a holistic range of services that support people through every stage of life. From primary health care and chronic disease management to mental health support, family wellbeing programs and community initiatives, our focus is on providing care that is accessible, culturally safe and guided by community needs.
More Than a Health Service
Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS) is a community-controlled organisation governed by Martu and Nyiyaparli people, for Martu and Nyiyapari people. Community control means local people help shape the decisions we make, the services we provide and the future direction of our organisation. As part of the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation network, PAMS works alongside regional, state and national Aboriginal health organisations to ensure community voices are heard at every level.
Delivering Care Across the Western Desert
Providing healthcare across the East Pilbara and Western Desert is unlike anywhere else in Australia. Many of the communities we serve are hundreds of kilometres from major hospitals and specialist services, making access to healthcare a challenge for many families. Over the past decade, PAMS has grown from a small community-controlled medical service into a leading provider of health and wellbeing services across Newman, Jigalong, Parnngurr, Punmu and Kunawarritji. New clinics, staff housing, upgraded facilities and technology have strengthened our ability to deliver quality care closer to home.
Keeping People Connected to Country
One of the most significant milestones in recent years has been the establishment of dialysis services in Newman through a partnership with Purple House. Before the service opened, many people living with kidney disease were required to leave family, community and Country to access treatment. Today, local dialysis services allow people to receive life-saving care while remaining connected to the people and places that matter most. PAMS continues to advocate for more specialist services, outreach programs and on-Country healthcare options that reduce the need for travel and keep families together.
Building Healthier Futures
While healthcare is at the heart of what we do, our work extends beyond the clinic. We support children, families, Elders and communities through programs that strengthen wellbeing, build resilience and address the social factors that influence health. Our approach combines cultural knowledge, strong partnerships and quality healthcare to create lasting change and support healthier futures for Martu and Nyiyaparli people across the Western Desert and East Pilbara.