The new virtual women’s health clinic is now open for all Victorian women and girls.
The new service, created by the state government, will provide free, expert medical advice, treatment and care for a range of women’s health needs.
Led by specialist nurses, the clinic can provide medical advice remotely via telehealth, either online or on the phone – including endometriosis and pelvic pain care, menstrual health, cervical screening, menopause care, breast health care and abortion.
Women in regional and remote Victoria will benefit the most; with services like contraception and abortion traditionally harder to access due to distance from major towns.
Operated in partnership with community health organisation EACH, it will reduce the barriers and delays in accessing care, helping to avoid impacts on a woman’s health, their quality of life and the ability to participate in school and employment.
“We’re making it easier for all women and girls to get the specific care and advice they need no matter where they live – and we have made it free,” Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
“There is no denying the gender health gap is real and it disproportionately affects women living in regional or remote areas of Victoria – our new virtual women’s clinic is helping to break down this and other barriers to care.”
The team of nurses will deliver an initial health assessment and some treatment, while patients can also be connected with a GP or get referred to a relevant health practitioner as close to home as possible.
In addition to treating immediate health needs, referrals can also be made to various mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, and family violence community support services.
The virtual women’s clinic is available Monday to Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm, by calling 1300 003 224 or via an online form on the EACH website each.com.au/services/virtual-womens-health-clinic
