During NAIDOC week the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians are celebrated nationally. Originally NAIDOC stood for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, the group responsible for organising national activities.  However the acronym itself has now become the name of the event.

Dr Nicholas Doong’s Surgery in Burwood is located in an area that has relatively low numbers of Aboriginal residents (0.25% - 2006 Census). However Dr Doong thought that it was important for the practice to make a meaningful contribution.

The much anticipated RACGP Cultural Awareness training is now available. The 3 hour online activity is available free of charge via the RACGP’s www.gplearning.com.au website (for members including practice managers, practice nurses and medical receptionists) and ClinEd - www.clined.com.au (for PIP participants).

The aim of the health assessment is to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receive primary health care matched to their needs, by encouraging early detection, diagnosis and intervention for common and treatable conditions that cause morbidity and early mortality.