Introduction

Introduction

East Gippsland is a diverse geographical area, bordered to the north-east by rugged high country, and to the south by the famous 90 mile beach and lakes and river system.

With an approximate population of 40,000 people, the area is predominantly rural, featuring cattle and sheep farming, and commercial vegetable growing and processing. Forestry and tourism are other major industries, as is the multi-million dollar fishing industry in Lakes Entrance.

Gippsland Lakes Community Health (GLCH) is a high profile health service provider in East Gippsland that is noted for its extensive range of health and community services, its ability to relate to and provide services to the most disadvantaged communities, and its championing of the social model of health.

GLCH's service sites are in Lakes Entrance, Bairnsdale, Bruthen and Metung. It provides outreach services throughout East Gippsland through its network of partnerships, extensive travel and use of information technology. Its partnerships with Koorie controlled organisations are particularly strong. It provides management, administration and outreach health services to many of these organisations in a way that builds capacity and empowers their Boards and communities.

Services are divided into six units with a strong multi-disciplinary approach. The Units are Aged Care Services; Clinical and Nursing Services; Community Health Services; Corporate Services; Family Youth and Children's Services; and Health Promotion and Koorie Health Services.

GLCH values and promotes excellence of service and prides itself on delivering coordinated and accessible health services and health promotion programs. There is a focus on the health of populations as well as the health of individuals.

GLCH has an annual budget of $14 million, over 270 staff and 500 volunteers who deliver a range of family, children and youth services, home care, allied health, nursing, medical and counselling services.