Katherine is still waiting for the promised “on the ground” mental health counselling support in the town to deal with PFAS contamination issues.
With the return of blood test results from the Federal Government free testing service, residents are saying anxiety levels have skyrocketed.
The Northern Territory Primary Care Network, which has been contracted by the government to provide the service, says it is still looking for a provider in Katherine.
Online and telephone services are currently available, the service says.
The Federal Government announced the $5.7 million rollout of free blood testing and mental health services back in early December last year.
A spokeswoman for the health care network outlined what is being offered in Katherine:
GP counselling services: Two mental health counselling sessions provided by GPs are currently available in addition to pre and post blood test counselling sessions
Online and telephone PFAS Support service is currently available: Support Now p: 1300 096 257 https://supportnow.org.au/
Counselling Services: NT PHN is currently working to provide place-based counselling providers in Katherine. Further information regarding these services will be made available on the NT PHN website.
Community wellbeing initiatives: NT PHN is currently engaging with the local council to build on existing community programs.
Other Counselling Support: for further counselling support please contact NT PHN on 8982 1000 to be referred to a provider.
Chris McLennan
ACM national rural property writer based in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria. Career journalist. Multi award winner.
ACM national rural property writer based in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria. Career journalist. Multi award winner.
