A new virtual women’s health clinic will be launched in regional Victoria, providing free access to services such as endometriosis and pelvic pain care, menstrual health, cervical screening, menopause care, breast health care, and abortion.
The clinic, set to launch before mid-year in partnership with community health organisation EACH (Eastern Access Community Health), will offer free medical advice, treatment, and care for various women’s health needs.
Led by specialist nurses, the clinic aims to improve access to healthcare, particularly for women in regional and remote Victoria where services like contraception and abortion may be less accessible due to distance.
Available via telehealth or online, the service will provide initial health assessments and some treatments, while also connecting patients with GPs or referring them to relevant health practitioners close to home.
Referrals can also be made to mental health and wellbeing services, alcohol and other drugs support, and family violence community support services.
Additionally, a Mobile Women’s Health Clinic van operated by BreastScreen Victoria will be in Victoria Park, Daylesford from 17-28 February.
The mobile clinic offers sexual and reproductive health advice, clinical services, and referrals for medical abortion (MTOP), contraception, and other specialist care.
Member for Macedon and Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas said that the virtual clinic would make a huge difference for women in Regional Victoria by providing them with free, and easily accessible healthcare. “We know the gender health gap is real, especially for women living in regional or remote areas of Victoria – that is why we’re establishing this virtual women’s clinic to help breakdown the barriers to care.”
Both the mobile and virtual clinics are part of a $153 million women’s health package aimed at improving healthcare access in Victoria.
