A vital partnership between North West Hospital and Health Service (HHS) and the Deadly Ears team from Brisbane is making a measurable difference in the North West region, helping reduce the prevalence of this preventable condition.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children face one of the highest rates of middle ear disease in the world, a condition that can significantly impact their hearing, development of speech, behaviour, and learning.

The collaboration between North West HHS and Deadly Ears focuses on improving the prevention, treatment, and management of middle ear disease.

It also emphasises culturally capable services and education, ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and their families receive the best possible care.

The Deadly Ears team, consisting of an Audiologist, Health Workers, Ear Nose Throat (ENT) Specialists, Nurses, Speech Pathologists, and Occupational Therapists, frequently visits remote communities across the North West.

Deadly Ears ENT specialist Dr Bernard Whitfield urges families to keep a close watch on signs of ear trouble and to make ear checks a regular part of children’s healthcare.

“Parents are encouraged to bring their children in for routine ear checks during health visits with GPs or other healthcare providers to catch potential problems early,” said Dr Whitfield.

“Common signs of ear troubles include temperature, runny nose, runny ears, pulling at ears, not reacting to noises, cranky or upset temperament. These could all be signs of ear infection and it’s important to have these symptoms checked by a health professional.

“There are many things we can do to prevent ear infections outside of getting ear checks regularly; keeping hands and faces clean, keeping up to date with vaccinations, and cleaning ears after swimming in creeks and dams.”

North West HHS Chief Executive Sean Birgan, said partnerships that improve access to care services that are delivered closer to home, are crucial to supporting First Nations’ peoples health and longevity.

“One of the key successes of this program is the increasing number of families attending appointments and receiving the necessary care in all our North West communities,” Mr Birgan said.

“Our partnership with Deadly Ears has brought much-needed attention to the importance of ear health in our community.

“Together we are seeing a positive impact in reducing cases of middle ear disease and ensuring better long-term health outcomes for First Nations children.”

Mother of recent Deadly Ears patient, Mrs Baira said “We had a great experience at the clinic. The staff made us feel welcome and comfortable, the team was friendly, and they took the time to explain everything clearly.”

“Our son was scheduled for surgery within the same week, and the entire process was made easy and stress free.

“On surgery day, the staff were incredibly reassuring and comforting, not only to our son but also to us as parents. Their calm, caring approach helped ease any concerns we had, and we truly felt that our son was in good hands.”

The Deadly Ears program plays a fundamental role in improving the health and future of children across the North West, fostering a brighter, healthier future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.