As a proud Kooma, Barada, Kabalbara and Yetimarala woman, Jenny Airs’ role with West Moreton Health is a calling.
For the past three years, Ms Airs has been working as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurse Navigator, helping guide First Nations community members through the health system and ensuring they have access to essential services and support.
West Moreton Health has 15 Nurse Navigators, assisting patients who have complex health conditions and require a high degree of comprehensive, clinical care.
An experienced Registered Nurse, Ms Airs has always had a desire to help others but said the chance to make a difference to the lives of fellow First Nations people had become a driving force.
“My role is deeply rooted in my heritage and my passion for supporting and empowering our people,” Ms Airs, a nurse with Queensland Health for 24 years, said.
“During my career, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of culturally sensitive care and advocacy.
“I support high needs and complex care patients while promoting cultural safety and inclusion within healthcare and other sectors, striving to make a tangible difference in the lives of our people.
“My role is crucial because it bridges gaps in understanding and access, ensuring that our people receive the care and respect they deserve.”
Ms Airs said she was proud to play a part in helping her people.
“The most rewarding aspect is seeing the positive changes in our community and knowing that my work contributes to better health outcomes and a stronger, more empowered community,” she said.
“I am deeply passionate about improving healthcare outcomes for our people and I strive to be a voice for those who are often marginalized in the healthcare system.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to support my community in this role and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact.”
West Moreton Health’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit provides a link between health services and the First Nations community through initiatives such as the Jaghu Maternal and Infant Program, and the Murrumba Targan Djimbulung service for adults with chronic health conditions.
The unit’s Acting Director, Maurice Woodley, said it continued to play a vital role in the local community.
“We know the West Moreton region has a large First Nations population and navigating the health system can be daunting, which is why our unit and staff like Jenny are so important,” Mr Woodley said.
“West Moreton Health is working towards health equity for First Nations health and the work we do is making a real, positive impact.
“I’m so proud of our team and we will continue to work hard to embed culturally appropriate and inclusive care across West Moreton Health for better health outcomes for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.”
For more on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support at West Moreton Health, visit our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support webpage.