Women across Victoria will soon have easier access to essential healthcare, with the Allan Labor Government launching a free virtual women’s health clinic before mid-year. The initiative, in partnership with community health organisation EACH, will provide expert medical advice, treatment and care for a range of women’s health needs at no cost.
Led by specialist nurses, the service is set to improve access to care, particularly for those in regional and remote areas where services such as contraception and abortion remain difficult to access. Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said the virtual clinic would help close the gender health gap, making it easier for women to seek care without unnecessary delays.
Barriers to healthcare can have lasting effects on a woman’s health, daily life and ability to work or study. The virtual clinic, accessible via telehealth or online, will offer initial health assessments, treatment, and referrals to nearby GPs or specialists. Patients may also be connected to mental health, alcohol and drug support, and family violence services if needed.
Meanwhile, Victoria’s Mobile Women’s Health Clinic van is already on the move, currently operating in Edenhope until 14 February before heading to Daylesford. Operated by BreastScreen Victoria, the van offers free healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive health advice, contraception, medical abortion referrals and general clinical care. First Nations women are a focus of the initiative, ensuring improved access to essential health services.
Both the virtual and mobile clinics form part of the government’s $153 million women’s health package, designed to reshape how women receive healthcare across the state.
Minister Mary-Anne Thomas emphasised the importance of access, stating, “Abortion care is healthcare, and while we have already made abortion more accessible, we know there is more to do – because Victorian women deserve to have a choice, no matter where they live.”
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