Vital heart health services are reaching one of Western Australia’s most remote regions, with echocardiograms delivered locally in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands through the Medical Outreach Indigenous Chronic Disease Program (MOICDP).
The visiting cardiology team conducts heart scans and delivers on-the-ground education for local patients and clinic staff. In September 2024, two children were able to receive echocardiograms onsite without having to leave Country for testing in Kalgoorlie or Perth.
This service is especially important in remote Aboriginal communities, where the incidence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains significantly higher than in the general population. RHD is a preventable yet serious condition that can cause permanent damage to the heart valves, and timely diagnosis and ongoing monitoring are essential to improving outcomes.
By providing diagnostic services on Country, this outreach model supports earlier detection, strengthens trust in the healthcare system, and reduces the significant social and logistical burden of travelling long distances for care. Families remain close to home, cultural obligations can be maintained, and local clinic staff are better supported in managing chronic conditions.