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Djaalinj Waakinj Ear Portal: An ENT and Audiology referral pathway for improving access to ear and hearing services for Aboriginal children in the metropolitan area using telehealth

The Djaalinj Waakinj (Listening, Talking) Ear Portal project commenced in 2020 to evaluate an equitable ear and hearing care pathway for Aboriginal children residing in the metropolitan area of Perth.

Investigators

Chris Brennan-Jones, Peter Richmond, Deborah Lehmann, Valerie Swift, Eman Alenezi, Lydia Timms, Karina Tao, Natasha Morrison, Tamara Veselinovic, Greta Bernabei, Kerryn Gidgup

Project description

The Djaalinj Waakinj (Listening, Talking) Ear Portal project commenced in 2020 to evaluate an equitable ear and hearing care pathway for Aboriginal children residing in the metropolitan area of Perth. The community-based model of care based in Cockburn is an extension of the original Djaalinj Waakinj birth cohort; however, Aboriginal children of all ages may join the new project and receive fast-tracked audiology assessments and Ear, Nose, and Throat treatments, namely grommet surgery, through the service pathways offered. The Djaalinj Waakinj project is led by Aboriginal staff in the Ear Health team and works closely with the local Aboriginal Community Advisory Group to ensure culturally appropriate care and research governance are at the forefront of all research questions.

External collaborators

  • Perth Children’s Hospital: Jafri Kuthubutheen, Shyan Vijayasekaran, Hayley Herbert, Tu Trang Tran
  • Cockburn Integrated Health: Clory Carello, June Doyle, Geroge Sim, Francis Lannigan