Mining and FIFO workers are being encouraged to take a survey and help shape the future of healthcare in their region.

More than 930 North Queenslanders have already had their say through the Joint Regional Needs Assessment (JRNA) survey, which is open until 16 August 2024.

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) Chief Executive Officer Sean Rooney said the responses to date had been extremely informative and it wasn’t too late to be involved.

“It’s important for all community members living and working in North Queensland to have their say on their region’s healthcare because they are the ones using the services,” Sean said.

“It’s also imperative that we hear from a wide cross-section of people, including those under 24, FIFO workers, LGBTIQ+, First Nations, and older persons.

“Through the survey, you can tell us what’s impacting you and your community as a mining and FIFO worker and what your health needs are, so we can plan better health services and achieve improved outcomes for all northern Queensland residents.”

Information collected through the short survey will help to develop North Queensland’s first JRNA, a collaboration between Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), and Torres and Cape, Cairns and Hinterland, Townsville, and Mackay Hospital and Health Services (HHSs).

Image caption: NQPHN Strategic Operations Lead Jess Roelandts and Older Persons Health and Palliative Care Manager Maria Callaghan spoke with residents at a local shopping centre about the future of the region’s healthcare.