Introduction to Aboriginal Health

Top level

Regional Initiatives

Aboriginal Services

Author: Steven Sumner

Modified date: 09 August 2002 11:10am

Introduction
In 1998 – 2000, life expectancy for Indigenous males was 56 years – 21 years less than for the total male population and a level similar to that experienced by Australian males in the period 1901 – 1910.

In 1998 – 2000 life expectancy for Indigenous females was 63 years – 20 years less than for the total female population and a similar level to that of Australian females in 1920 – 1922.”

Access to health care for Indigenous people in South Australia is not a new issue. In 1989, a metropolitan health needs assessment study on Nunga’s access to health care in Adelaide found “a disturbingly low level of usage of all mainstream services; particularly at the Primary Care level.” The picture is not dissimilar in country areas; however, the creation of Regional Health Services and Aboriginal Health Advisory Committees has provided a mechanism for a more coordinated approach.

Aboriginal Health has been a key focus within the Hills Mallee Southern Region in 2001/2002 as highlighted in the Strategic Plan.

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Last updated on: 09 August 2002