A letter from an Oberon resident was published in last week's copy of the Oberon Review headed "Plan Now for an Ageing Town".
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The letter contained several relevant points worth thinking about and it was pleasing to see there are members of our community doing just that. I thought it timely to provide information for the benefit of our residents.
During 2019 council, in collaboration with Western NSW Primary Health Network, created a Health Profile/Snapshot for the Oberon LGA - a snapshot of the health status of residents, available healthcare options and community services available to support the population.
This profile is of immense value to council providing a solid factual base from which we can identify what services we have but more importantly what we do not have but may need into the future.
By highlighting future risks to the wellbeing of the community, council is able to identify where to seek and inform funding opportunities and lobby governments for improved services. It is not enough to state "we need this" we need to actually demonstrate that we "need it".
The Health Snapshot was compiled with input from many sources including Regional NSW Health Organisations, our own medical professionals, various government departments, the Oberon Health Council (OHC) and the Oberon community who participated in surveys.
You can see the Health Snapshot on council's website.
One of the identified areas of concern was palliative care. In collaboration with the MPS and OHC we have now secured a palliative care service for Oberon.
Palliative care is delivered very differently today than in the past.
It is well recognised that specialised care and support for both patient and family needs are unique. Contact the team of health professionals at Daffodil Cottage Palliative Care Service 63305347 for an Oberon appointment.
One way the community can be involved and proactive in all ongoing issues is to join the OHC and make a positive contribution moving forward.
If this interests you please contact Elaine Boxer 6336 0441. Another way to be involved and improve community outcomes is to join the Community Services Committee, a committee of council which meets bi-monthly.
Respite care is acknowledged as an ongoing issue in Oberon.
Various organisations are working to improve the situation and community input is always welcome through either the OHC, the Community Service Committee or through me personally.
