Our First Nations Health Unit is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) peoples through advocacy, education and support.
The Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) acknowledges the Wurundjeri people of Kulin nations as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we have the privilege to have our services located.
At the RMH, our First Nations Health Unit (FNHU) is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our First Nations peoples.
We recognise the need to create, establish and maintain strong connections with all of our patients, consumers and visitors from diverse backgrounds and are continually working to provide a safe and supportive environment.
Our FNHU comprises a passionate team of First Nation staff that leads with integrity, unity and dedication to provide advocation, education and support. Serving our community to provide a culturally safe and harmonious space for all First Nations patients and families.
About us
Our FNHU is committed to improving health outcomes for our Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community by providing culturally safe and individualised care.
We will provide cultural and emotional support during our patient’s admission liaising with multidisciplinary teams providing advocacy and education to our staff to ensure our community feels understood and welcome at the RMH under the guidance of our in-house Elder in Residence.
Who we care for
We provide cultural support and advocacy for all patients and families who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander during their journey at the RMH.
What to expect
Our team may assist with:
- Ensuring hospital services are culturally appropriate, safe, welcoming and meet the needs of First Nations patients, consumers and wider community
- Bedside visits to explain the hospital system and act as a liaison between patients, their families and our multidisciplinary team of staff
- Helping patients and their families to access hospital and community support services in the wider community
- Helping with discharge planning and accessing community resources to ensure continuity of care
First Nations Hospital Liaison Officers (FNHLOs) also have the ability to link into relevant external services on discharge to provide ongoing outreach support.
Referrals
Patients do not need an external referral to access this service. Reach out to our wonderful treatment team to connect with our FNHLOs.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our friendly staff members to connect with our Deadly First Nations Health Unit.
For Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples' community services and community members seeking assistance or engagement, contact the FNHLOs at AHLO@mh.org.au
Links & documents
300 Grattan St, Parkville, Victoria
The First Nations SEWB Team can provide welcome and orientation to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people accessing the mental health service.