Applications for the chief executive officer position for the newly-created Western NSW Primary Health Network (PHN) have opened.

PHNs, the creation of the federal Coalition government, took the place of Medicare Locals across Australia on Wednesday.

The Western NSW Primary Health Network Consortium of two former Medicare Locals and two Aboriginal health organisations was successful in its tender to the Department of Health to run the Western NSW PHN.

Dr Jenny Beange, who held the top position of the Western NSW Medicare Local, is the interim head of the new organisation, which has its headquarters at Dubbo.

Human resources consultancy Dakin Mayers is handling the recruitment of the permanent chief executive officer.

The Melbourne-based firm specialising in the sector reported advertising nationally, regionally, the internet and "headhunting" were involved in the process.

"It's an important position and we want someone who can drive it, take it forward," Dakin Mayers director Philip Mayers said.

"It's not just a bureaucratic role."

The efforts had already yielded some response.

"We have had what I would call qualified interest from people capable of doing the job," Mr Mayers said. "We are satisfied but we want to give more people the opportunity."

The Western NSW PHN geographic boundaries align with those of the Western NSW and Far West Local Health Districts.

It stretches from Oberon in the east to Broken Hill in the west, and from Lightning Ridge in the north to Balranald and Griffith in the south.

Potential candidates are told in one advertisement the CEO will "take a key role in advancing medical services for patients by improving coordination of care for over 320,000 people across a region covering 450,000 square kilometres".

Mr Mayers said Aboriginal health would be an important part of the role because 11 per cent of the population were of Aboriginal background.

Applications close on July 20 and people seeking further information about the position can call Dakin Mayers on 1800 241 243.