Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers

The Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer (AHLO) program supports Aboriginal and or Torres Strait islander patients within the hospital environment. AHLOs work in collaboration with other staff to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families, and are available to:

• Advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.
• Support the cultural, spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.
• Provide cultural and liaison links between the patient and families, medical staff and external referral services.
• Increase awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health issues amongst healthcare professionals.
• Assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients to understand the hospital system (e.g. why tests and/or procedures are required, explaining healthcare options).
• Assist patients and their families following discharge to ensure they are supported and understand their future medical care.
• Improve healthcare services and relationships between the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and government departments.

When you are admitted to hospital, ask the admitting clerk to contact an Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer.