A housing program that supports general practitioners and allied health professionals has been extended by the City of Karratha.
The Medical Services Housing Scheme was initially established in 2008.
The Council has endorsed a continuation of the scheme for a further 12 months to enable the City to investigate the community’s health care needs and workplace demands and identify appropriate initiatives to implement with industry partners next financial year.
City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said access to GP’s and other health practitioners was one of the top concerns for the community.
“The Community has identified access to health care services as one of their top concerns, and affordable housing continues to be the largest barrier to attracting Health Professionals to Karratha,” Cr Scott said.
“While this is not generally the function of Local Government, we are committed to ensuring locals have adequate access to health professionals.
“Extending the scheme for another year means those utilising the scheme continue to be supported while we undertake more work to devise a more effective solution.
“Our officers will continue to work with health service providers, industry, and the State Government to assess the current and future needs of our community and what is required to meet these needs.”