Guy Cameron

PhD, Bbiomedsci(hons), Bmedsci

Enhancing Hearing Health: An ENT Training Day for Aboriginal Health Workers


June 18, 2024

Had a fantastic time participating in an ENT training day focused on hearing health and otoscopy, organised for Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners. The event was led by my supervisor, Professor Kelvin Kong (OAM), a distinguished Worimi man and Australia’s first Aboriginal surgeon, specialising in the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT).
Held at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) in Newcastle, the training day was attended by 18 participants from various organisations, including the University of Newcastle/HMRI, Armajun Aboriginal Medical Service, Pius X Aboriginal Medical Service, Queensland Health, and Hunter New England Health.

The day commenced with an enlightening overview by Professor Kong, who discussed the historical and social issues impacting Aboriginal health. He emphasised the lingering effects of past racist government policies and the subtle racism still faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in healthcare settings. Professor Kong’s session highlighted the diversity within Aboriginal communities and the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare practices.

Following the introduction, Professor Kong provided a detailed explanation of the ear’s anatomy and function, covering the outer, middle, and inner compartments. This foundational knowledge set the stage for the hands-on training sessions that followed.
The second session introduced participants to the use of new portable video-otoscopes, funded by the Immune Health Program. These devices enable Aboriginal health workers and practitioners to capture images of the middle ear and transmit them electronically to ear specialists in metropolitan areas. This technology is particularly valuable for rural and remote locations, where access to specialist care is often limited.

Participants practiced using the video-otoscopes, learning how to collect and record images for patient records and specialist consultations. This training builds the capacity of Aboriginal health workers to triage and diagnose ear problems, promoting early detection and treatment. In many cases, this can significantly reduce waiting times for children who might otherwise face prolonged delays for specialist consultations.

The final session of the day involved a rigorous review of various ear conditions that can be identified using a video-otoscope. Participants engaged in a friendly competition, diagnosing challenging ear conditions using the updated 2020 Otitis Media Guidelines smartphone app. This interactive activity not only reinforced their learning but also enhanced their diagnostic skills using real-world scenarios.
Reflecting on the training day, I am inspired by the commitment and enthusiasm of the participants. Equipping Aboriginal health workers with the skills and tools to address hearing health is crucial in improving health outcomes in our communities. The training provided a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and empowering health workers to deliver effective and culturally appropriate care.

As we continue to support and train Aboriginal health practitioners, I am confident that initiatives like these will lead to better health outcomes and a stronger, more resilient healthcare workforce. The ENT training day was a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to improve hearing health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.


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