Women and girls in Hepburn Shire now have easier access to expert, tailored healthcare thanks to the launch of the Victorian Government’s new Virtual Women’s Health Clinic.
The free telehealth service, available to all Victorian women and girls, is part of a $153 million state-wide women’s health package aimed at transforming how women receive care — especially those living in regional and rural areas.
The clinic offers confidential consultations with specialist nurses by phone or video call, addressing a wide range of health needs including endometriosis and pelvic pain, menstrual issues, menopause care, cervical screening, breast health and abortion services. Referrals to local GPs and specialists are also available, and women can be connected to additional supports for mental health, family violence, and alcohol and drug services.
Mary-Anne Thomas, Minister for Health and Member for Macedon, said the new clinic would be a “gamechanger” for women in regional communities like Hepburn.
“We’re making it easier for all women and girls to get the specific care and advice they need no matter where they live – and we have made it free,” said Minister Thomas.
“There is no denying the gender health gap is real and it disproportionately affects women living in regional or remote areas of Victoria – our new virtual women’s clinic is helping to break down this and other barriers to care.”
“We’re not taking a step back when it comes to ensuring women and girls can access the health care they need – the new virtual women’s health clinic will be a gamechanger for Victoria.”
For women in Hepburn Shire, where access to reproductive and specialist services can require long travel times, the virtual clinic offers convenience and peace of mind. The service also helps reduce transport costs and time away from work or family — key barriers for many regional women.
Operated by EACH, a not-for-profit community health provider, the clinic is staffed by experienced nurses who can assess needs, provide treatment, and coordinate follow-up care. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and can be accessed via phone (1300 003 224) or through the EACH website at each.com.au/services/virtual-womens-health-clinic.
The virtual clinic complements the Government’s mobile women’s health clinic, which continues to visit regional and remote communities across Victoria. Operated by BreastScreen Victoria, the mobile service focuses on accessibility for Aboriginal women and provides a broad range of women’s health services, including sexual and reproductive health care, contraception advice, and medical abortion referrals.
Together, the mobile and virtual clinics mark a significant step in addressing the persistent health inequities faced by women in rural areas like Hepburn Shire.
“For local women and girls in Macedon [and across Hepburn Shire], the new virtual clinic will mean they can access more health services, quicker and in the comfort of their own home,” Minister Thomas said.
This article is based on a media release from the office of the Minister for Health and Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas.
