Karratha Event Highlights Menopause Care
The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has reinforced its commitment to regional healthcare in Western Australia, with Vice President Dr Ramya Raman visiting Karratha on 9th June. The visit aimed to strengthen support for healthcare professionals in the region.
During her visit, Dr Raman led an educational session titled 'Perimenopause & Menopause: Clinical Management & Culturally Responsible Care'. This session was part of a partnership between RACGP WA and Rural Health West's Health Professionals Network, established in October 2025.
The partnership focuses on enhancing professional development opportunities in regional WA by delivering annual education events across the state's seven regions. This initiative facilitates access to high-quality continuing professional development for local GPs and allied health professionals.
Dr Raman emphasised the importance of supporting regional health professionals and improving health outcomes throughout WA. "GPs are the cornerstone of healthcare in rural and remote communities, providing comprehensive, continuous care close to where people live," she stated.
Focus on Culturally Responsive Care
The Karratha session addressed both clinical and lived experiences of perimenopause and menopause, offering strategies to identify common and atypical presentations and navigate treatment options. Culturally responsive care was a key focus, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and those from diverse backgrounds.
Dr Raman stressed the significance of cultural considerations in healthcare, saying, "Women’s experiences of menopause can vary significantly across cultures and communities. By building clinicians’ confidence in culturally responsive communication and care, we can help improve health outcomes and experiences for all women."
The event, held at Karratha International Hotel, was available both in-person and online, ensuring broader access for health professionals across the Pilbara. Dr Raman also met with local healthcare providers, including Panaceum Karratha and Sonic HealthPlus Karratha, to discuss regional healthcare priorities and challenges.
The partnership established in October 2025 aims to support the rural health workforce by fostering professional connections. This collaboration ensures that health professionals in regional areas have the same high-quality educational opportunities as their metropolitan colleagues. According to Dr Raman, such initiatives are crucial for maintaining a well-informed and connected healthcare community.
