The Tasmanian Government is driving forward with a new initiative to bring essential healthcare directly to those in need. The expansion of the mobile GP service, which offers fully bulk-billed appointments, is set to improve access to medical care for Hobart residents who face barriers in reaching traditional GP services.
Initially launched in January as a one-year trial, this mobile clinic has quickly demonstrated its value in addressing gaps in healthcare access. Partnering with Moreton Group, the Government introduced this service to cater specifically to individuals without a regular GP or those deterred by the cost of consultations.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, shared his satisfaction with the program’s success. “Our mobile GP clinic has proven to be a vital resource, providing essential support to Tasmanians who need it most. It has significantly eased the pressure on our Emergency Departments,” Barnett stated.
The programme’s success has prompted an extension, backed by the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. An additional two years of funding will secure 9,000 more appointments, expanding the clinic’s reach and impact. This extension ensures that the benefits of the mobile service will continue, giving more Tasmanians the opportunity to access care in their communities without financial strain.
Operating five days a week, the mobile GP clinic will visit various locations on a rotating roster, including Neighbourhood Houses in New Norfolk, Clarendon Vale, Gagebrook, and Chigwell, as well as the Salvation Army in Glenorchy and Flint House in New Town. By offering bulk-billed services at these sites, the programme aims to address the healthcare needs of diverse communities, particularly those with limited access to regular GP services.
The strategic placement of the mobile clinics is designed to alleviate pressure on emergency services by providing an accessible alternative for non-urgent care. This approach not only benefits patients by reducing travel and out-of-pocket costs but also supports the broader healthcare system by diverting patients from Emergency Departments and reducing ambulance call-outs.
The 2024-25 Budget allocates $550,000 to ensure the continued success and expansion of this initiative. This funding will support the ongoing operation of the mobile clinics and potentially enable their further extension across the state, pending future evaluation.
For more information on the mobile GP service and its schedule, visit the Tasmanian Government’s health services website. This extension of the mobile clinic programme is a significant step towards enhancing healthcare access and ensuring that essential services are available to all Tasmanians, regardless of their circumstances.
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