I read with interest recent letters regarding the lack of podiatry services and access to a male doctor in Boorowa which appeared to suggest were the fault of the local doctor.

My wife and I recently relocated from Bargo on the edge of the Southern Highlands, a town with 5000 people and 100 klms from Sydney CBD.

Bargo has one permanent doctor who closed his books to new patients approximately 10 years ago. Our doctor was in Campbelltown 40 klms away. Bargo has a similar demographic to Boorowa but no hospital, aged care facilities, hospice, ambulance or allied health services.

If you needed any of the aforementioned services you had to travel to Bowral or Campbelltown and pay. Boorowa in comparison seems very fortunate, particularly with a bulk billing, home visiting doctor -something very rare now in Southern Highlands, Camden/Campbelltown area and I believe in the ACT.

If people are unhappy with the cessation of the foot nurse's services they should contact our local area health service or MP. Blaming Dr Win is misplaced.

As for needing a male doctor, the Bargo doctor has been trying to find an upright breathing doctor, male or female, for at least three years with no luck. If Bargo, so close to Sydney, can't crack it for a doctor what chance has Boorowa of getting an itinerant male doctor?

People sometimes need a reality check and be thankful of the services that they have and in particular appreciate that they have a dedicated doctor that has demonstrated her commitment to the town. Plenty of other towns don't and would be grateful for what Boorowa has.

Of course, if you are still unhappy you can try your luck elsewhere.

If you don't mind whopper bushfires Bargo is great. Personally, we think the medical services in Boorowa are terrific.

Chris Carter

Boorowa