Queensland’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Catherine McDougall, visited Mount Isa and Cloncurry last week, engaging with key stakeholders and healthcare professionals to discuss local healthcare priorities and challenges.

During her visit, Dr McDougall met with the Executive Leadership Team of the North West Hospital and Health Service (HHS) and members of the North West HHS Board, where discussions focused on healthcare service delivery and regional medical support.

Dr McDougall attended the Clinical Directors meeting, held one-on-one conversations with medical staff and engaged with Medical Year 1 and Year 2 postgraduates, where she provided insights and support for early-career doctors working in regional Queensland.

Travelling to Cloncurry, Dr McDougall met with the Medical Superintendent at Cloncurry Hospital as well as the Cloncurry Shire Mayor and councillors, reinforcing the government’s commitment to regional healthcare access and infrastructure.

The north west visit also included meetings with key local representatives, including Robbie Katter MP, and health services such as Gidgee Healing, to discuss First Nations and community health initiatives.

A highlight of the trip was attending Dr. Nariyoshi Miyata’s presentation on The Importance of Rural and Remote Orthopaedic Care, underscoring the need for specialised medical services in remote areas.

The Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Mr Sean Birgan was honoured to have the Dr McDougall visit the North West and to have taken the time to meet with and chat with many of the staff.

Dr McDougall’s visit reaffirmed the Queensland Government of the dedication North West HHS has to enhancing healthcare access and services in rural and remote communities, with a strong focus on collaboration, workforce development, and innovative healthcare solutions.