Congratulations to two outstanding health care professionals from Western Sydney who have been named finalists in the Stronger Medicare Awards, recognised for their dedication to improving the health of the community. Dr Siow Liew, a devoted general practitioner (GP) at Bidwill Family Practice and the team at Street Side Medics, have both made significant contributions to improve health outcomes for their communities.
The Stronger Medicare Awards celebrate Medicare champions from across Australia who excel in delivering exceptional primary care, embracing innovation and collaborating to enhance community health. These awards highlight the crucial role of primary care in providing accessible, high-quality health care and honour those who have contributed to Medicare’s success over the past four decades.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Medicare. It is more important than ever to celebrate this great initiative, which is why the Australian Government has launched the Stronger Medicare Awards.
Finalist Dr Siow Liew, GP at Bidwill Family Practice
Dr Siow Liew, GP at Bidwill Family Practice, provides patient-centred and culturally safe care, particularly for First Nations and Samoan communities. For nearly 40 years, he has had a profound positive impact on his patients, especially within the Aboriginal community, through his respectful and caring approach.
Dr Liew is well respected and trusted in his community and is known for his dedication and commitment to his many patients. Over four decades he has implemented many programs that educate patients on managing chronic illnesses. A champion of integrated and coordinated care, through these programs, his patients have seen better outcomes and effectively reducing hospital admissions.
He has supported families during challenging times, coordinating aged care for elderly patients and attending funerals to pay his respects. His commitment and ongoing support for the local Aboriginal population and ensuring timely vaccinations for all ages has significantly enhanced the quality of life for both his patients and the broader community.
Dr Liew’s nomination as a finalist in the Stronger Medicare Awards reflects his unwavering commitment to delivering culturally safe, patient-centred care and his impactful advocacy for vulnerable populations in the Western Sydney community.
Finalist Street Side Medics
Street Side Medics is a remarkable team of volunteer general practitioners and nurses providing free health care services to vulnerable individuals across Sydney, Wollongong and Melbourne through a network of equipped vans. Their innovative approach has enabled them to effectively reach the homeless population while collaborating with local charities and shelters. Supported by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Street Side Medics has adapted its care model to address community needs and drive quality health outcomes, utilising digital tools to refine their health care delivery, as well as partnering with us to deliver vaccinations and connect with local services to deliver coordinated care for their patients. Their van operates at two sites within Western Sydney, supporting vulnerable communities in Parramatta and Blacktown.
In response to rising health concerns, Street Side Medics expanded its services to offer COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, successfully navigating challenges in storage and cold chain management. Their proactive engagement and strong connections with at-risk populations has led to increasing patient numbers. Street Side Medics’ unwavering commitment to accessibility and community health truly embodies the values of Medicare Champions, making them a deserving nominee for the Stronger Medicare Award.
The finalists will be honoured, and the Medicare champions announced, at the Stronger Medicare Awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra on 4 November 2024.
This information is correct as of 31 October 2024.