AFTER more than five months without a doctor, Balranald finally has a new general practitioner.
The Balranald Medical Clinic is now owned by Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam.
While it has not been confirmed when consultations will begin, the clinic is now open for people to register as patients.
Balranald Shire Council said the recruitment of Dr Ihuarulam was a collaboration between the council, Far West Local Health District, Western NSW Primary Health Network and the Rural Doctors Network.
“The recruitment of Dr Vitalis has been a tremendous team effort with every sector involved,” it said. “This will not only benefit the Balranald Shire but Far West Health Services as a whole.”
Dr Ihuarulam also plans to provide GP services to residents of the Bidgee Haven Retirement Hostel, Balranald Multi-Purpose Service Residential Aged Care Facility, and possibly to Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation.
Once he is established in Balranald, Dr Ihuarulam will eventually expand his services to Euston.
“The recruitment will no doubt create a lot of excitement in the Balranald Shire and will be a major boost particularly to the business sector as people will no longer have to travel out of town to access GP services,” Council said.
Balranald Medical Clinic’s previous owner and operator Dr Slava Zotov was the town’s GP for 21 years before leaving on May 31.
“Having a doctor serving in the Shire strengthens the fabric of the local community and is an invaluable asset for continuity-of-care in country towns,” Council said.
“All the agencies are looking forward to continuing to support Dr Ihuarulam as he establishes his practice, and local residents are encouraged to utilise this essential service.”
Appointments with Dr Ihuarulam can be made by calling 03 4010 9609 or online at https://balranaldmedical.com.au
