Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam has announced that Balranald Medical Practice is now bulk billing standard consultations for all patients, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the entire community.

Patients are requested to bring along their Medicare card when visiting the practice so Dr Vitalis can update their records and ensure seamless bulk billing processing.

Dr Vitalis Ihuarulam established Balranald Medical Centre in December 2024 after relocating with his family from Narrandera. The practice is driven to provide the local rural community with friendly, culturally safe healthcare, ensuring all in the beloved rural community have equitable access to safe, patient centred healthcare.

Dr Ihuarulam opened his books six months after the community's long serving General Practitioner, Dr Zotov, retired. His arrival has been described as a major boost for the whole Balranald Shire and Far West region.

Western NSW Primary Health Network CEO Brad Porter highlighted Dr Vitalis's passion for aged care and health outcomes for Aboriginal and regional communities as a real asset to Balranald with flow on impacts for surrounding communities.

Dr Ihuarulam has already committed to providing GP services to Bidgee Haven Retirement Hostel residents and wants to expand his services to neighbouring areas and partner with Aboriginal Health organisations in the future. Dr Vitalis is proud to be part of the Balranald community and looks forward to many years of providing patients with professional, comprehensive and holistic healthcare.

The practice operates from the Balranald Multipurpose Centre and offers a full range of general medical services. Appointments can be made online via the HotDoc platform or by phoning the practice on 03 4010 9609. First time patients will need to complete a new patient registration form, which can be filled in online or in person at the clinic. The introduction of bulk billing for all patients represents a significant commitment to ensuring healthcare remains accessible and affordable for everyone in the Balranald community, regardless of their circumstances.