IN response to Queensland women and girls advocating for accessible healthcare tailored to their specific needs, the State Government has announced plans to establish four new nurse-led clinics.
These clinics seek to provide women and girls with greater healthcare options and easier access to care in safe, supportive environments.
Each clinic will operate extended hours, from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week, accommodating the schedules of working individuals and students.
No appointment or referral will be necessary and the clinics will be strategically located in easily accessible areas such as shopping centres, with nearby public transport and parking facilities.
The locations of the new walk-in clinics will be determined based on community needs, with Queensland Health identifying areas where access to healthcare is lacking.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Service and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman said historically there has been a lack of investment in health services tailored to the unique needs of Queensland women and girls.
“Queensland women and girls have told us they need more options to access healthcare and we have heard their voices loud and clear,” she said.
“These new clinics will bring more healthcare to the community.
“The care provided will go a long way in bridging gaps to receiving culturally safe, trauma informed and gender responsive care for Queensland women and girls.”
While the clinics are primarily focused on women and girls, individuals of all ages, starting from one year old, will be able to access care.
Importantly, the nurse practitioner-led services will be provided free of charge, regardless of whether the patient holds a Medicare card.
The clinics will offer a wide range of healthcare services, including treatment for common ailments such as colds, flus, cuts, burns, and minor infections.
Additionally, specialised women’s health services will be available, covering contraception, maternal health, sexually transmissible infections, menstrual and menopause concerns, as well as support and referrals for those experiencing domestic, family, or sexual violence.
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