How did the AMS begin?
The first AMS was founded in Redfern in 1971 - not from Government handouts, but from donations from non-Aboriginal supporters of Aboriginal Rights. Judges, Ministers, Teachers and Church people formed the core of this support. Their actions came from their observations of the less than acceptable level of health services available to Aboriginal peoples.
The second AMS opened it's doors in 1972, and now there are more than 100 nation wide. Locally, the Aboriginal community of Walgett started lobbying for an AMS in the late 70's.
WAMS
In 1986 we opened our doors to the Walgett community. The Board of Directors moved a resolution to treat ALL people, and that has been the case since. Currently, 40% of our clients are non-Aboriginal.
How we are funded?
Monies of AMS's come from a separate "bucket" of funding specifically reserved for Aboriginal Health - so it does not act as a drain on the mainstream health budget.
AMS's are an important part of the delivery of Primary Health Care and recognised as equal partners in the delivery of health care by both State and Federal Ministers for health.
How can you help us?
WAMS is a non-profit organisation which relies on public support from individuals, community groups, corporations, trusts and foundations as well as government funding to continue to improve the health and well-being of our clients and the community.
There are countless ways that you can help WAMS. The choice is yours. Here are some ideas to get you started:
• Make a donation
• Arrange a fundraiser
• Leave a bequest
• Remember someone by making an in-memoriam gift
• Mark a significant occasion by making a celebratory gift
2008 Wams Spring/Summer Newsletter
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Prime Minister Rudd's speech
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WAMS receives three Awards at the
2008 NSW Aboriginal Health Awards
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Doctors get a taste of country practice
(Coonamble Times)
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CHECK OUT THE 2008 GALLERY
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