Primary Health
Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS) has over 30 years’ experience delivering culturally appropriate, holistic primary health care to the Martu and Nyiyaparli communities. Our team provides health promotion, prevention, chronic disease management, emergency care and community-based services across remote communities, supported by resident nurses and visiting medical practitioners.
1. Connect with PAMS
Visit your local PAMS clinic or speak with a nurse to discuss your health concerns, wellbeing goals or support needs.
2. Health Assessment & Check-Up
Receive a comprehensive health assessment, including routine checks, screenings, immunisations and discussions about your physical, social and emotional wellbeing.
3. Personalised Care & Support
Work with PAMS nurses, doctors and health professionals to access the services you need, such as chronic disease management, maternal and child health, men's and women's health, medications or mental health support.
4. Ongoing Care & Specialist Referrals
Receive follow-up care, reminders and referrals to visiting specialists or external services when required, ensuring you stay supported on your health journey.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. Crisis support is available 24/7. You are not alone.
Strong in culture, strong in community.
You belong, we walk with you.
PAMS acknowledges and pays respect to the Nyiyaparli (Newman) and Martu (Western Desert) people, as the Traditional Owners of the lands we service.
What happens at the health check?
Health checks might be different depending on your age.
Having the health check should take between 40-60 minutes. If you are comfortable, a health practitioner might check your:
- blood pressure
- blood sugar levels
- height and weight
- urine
It is also good to tell your health practitioner about your family medical history or any worries you have about your health.
Follow-up care
Once you finish the check, the Practice Nurse, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner or Health Worker might tell you about other ways to help look after your health. They might suggest services to help you with your:
- heart
- vision
- hearing
- movement
- mental health
You may also get help with free or discounted medicines you might need. Your Doctor can give you information about Closing the Gap scripts if you have or are at risk of having a chronic disease.
Where can you access a health check?
You can choose where you get your 715 health check. If you can, try to go to the same doctor or clinic.
This helps make sure you are being cared for by people who know about your health needs.
Do I need to pay for the health check?
The health check is free at your local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation. It is also free at bulk billing health clinics. If you are unsure whether it will be free at your local health clinic, give them a call to ask about the 715 health check before you book.
Why Should I Identify?
It is important to tell the Doctor if you are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander so that they can make sure you get access to health care you might need. Medicare can help record this for you, and their staff are culturally trained to help.
Call the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access line on 1800 556 955. This line can help to get services that match your needs. Staff are culturally trained and can match you to the right Medicare services.