Laser ensures ongoing surgery

A new $60,000 surgical laser for Derby Hospital has ensured cataract surgery can remain local for decades to come.

This development overcomes a huge barrier to treatment faced by local indigenous clients, especially for those from the Fitzroy Valley.

The laser was installed at the hospital last week as a major upgrade from the Indigenous and Remote Eye Health Service Taskforce, which delivers eye services in rural and remote communities throughout the country.

Taskforce members and long term Kimberley visiting specialists Dr Angus Turner and optometrist Margie O’Neil had successfully championed the cause for the West Kimberley region, with Derby Hospital being chosen second to Karratha in receiving the $60,000 upgrade, along with Kununurra as WA’s third regional recipient in this latest national rollout.

Dr Turner was in Derby to use the new laser for the first time last week.

“Patients, especially from the Fitzroy Valley, present for treatment quite late, leading to complicated procedures,” he said.

“But this modern laser, replacing a unit which was being used here for at least twenty years, ensures we can give patients what they want, which is to come to Derby for their healthcare, and which will no doubt lead to a diminishing waiting list.”

Dr Turner visits the Kimberley four times each year, undertaking multiple surgeries and attending clinics, with referrals co-ordinated by Ms O’Neil and her team of visiting optometrists.