Seventy-six general practices across the Robertson and Dobell electorates have received grant funding of between $25,000 and $35,000 from the Federal Labor Government’s Strengthening Medicare – General Practice Grants Program – making a total allocation of $2.08M.
Member for Robertson and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles highlighted the health investment during a recent visit to Erina Fair Medical Care.
The centre will use the $35,000 it received from the grant program to install a GP safety alarm system, buy new computer hardware and help towards a new renovation of the practice.
“Primary care is fundamental healthcare and it is critical that we are doing everything we can to support our general practices to continue providing high-quality patient care,” Reid said.
“The Government understands that having a strong primary healthcare system helps reduce pressure on our hospital emergency departments and ensures people can access care when they need it.
“I am pleased that during November our $3.5B investment into Medicare to triple the bulk billing incentive will also take effect.
“Our investment in Medicare will help general practices bulk bill children under 16, pensioners and those with concession cards.
“Additionally, The Peninsula Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will open at Umina Beach and start seeing patients for urgent care this month.
“Urgent care includes presentations such as for minor infections, minor fractures, sprains, sports injuries and sudden onset neck and back pain, UTIs, STIs, minor cuts, insect bites, mild burns and more.
“More needs to be done and we will continue to work towards addressing the issues affecting healthcare in the region.”
Erina Fair Medical Care Registered Nurse, Megan Yu, said the funding would help the general practice in a range of areas.
Source:
Member for Robertson Gordon Reid