Mappa is an innovative online platform developed by the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia (AHCWA) in partnership with its 23 Members, ACCHS, and associated communities. The goal of Mappa is to improve access to health services for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, especially those in remote areas. This platform is designed to help health consumers find care closer to home and address the unique challenges faced by Aboriginal people when navigating the healthcare system.
One of the original driving forces behind Mappa was the difficulty metropolitan hospital junior doctors experienced in finding information about clinical services available in remote areas. This knowledge gap often led to unnecessary return trips to Perth for Aboriginal patients and resulted in fragmented follow-up care after hospital discharge.
Mappa utilises advanced spatial mapping technology to visualise the locations of various health services, including primary care, secondary and tertiary services, mental health support, alcohol and other drug services, and outreach clinics. By providing accurate and reliable information, Mappa empowers users to navigate the complex healthcare landscape easily, improving accessibility and continuity of care.
By bridging the gap between patients and health services, Mappa plays a crucial role in addressing health disparities and supporting the overall wellbeing of Aboriginal people in Western Australia.