What is the Better Together Health Van?
The Metro North Better Together Health Van is a no‑cost community service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
While the Van is based on Brisbane’s Northside within the Metro North Health catchment, the Van also delivers clinics and engagement activities in rural and remote communities across South East Queensland. The Van is used as an extension of Metro North Health to support community engagement activities, health screenings and to build and strengthen partnerships and relationships with community, families, and community organisations.
About the Van
The Better Together Health Van is designed to be a welcoming and highly visible presence in the community. It features vibrant artwork by respected Aboriginal artist Elaine Chambers Hegarty, proudly displaying the wording Metro North Better Together Health Van.
On the outside, the Van is fitted with an undercover awning that creates a shaded space for tables and chairs. This area provides a relaxed setting where community members can stop by for a yarn with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and other health staff.
Inside, the Van offers a clean, practical and inviting space suitable for confidential conversations and health related engagement. The interior includes a privacy curtain, bed, sink and fridge and is fully air-conditioned to ensure comfort for both community members and staff.
The Van supports outreach, health promotion and engagement activities, allowing Metro North Hospital and Health Service to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in a culturally safe and welcoming way.
How does it work?
An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker accompanies the Van and supports Metro North Health clinicians to provide culturally responsive, safe and connected care access through opportunistic screening, health promotion and community engagement.
The Van will travel out to community events, organisations and locations to support health outreach, engagement and promotion activities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
How to access the Van?
Contact the Metro North Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Team to make a booking on 0439 475 437 or email Bettertogetherhealthvan@health.qld.gov.au for the Van to visit your community or event.