The Tasmanian Government is extending access to fully bulk-billed mobile GP care for those who need it most in and around Hobart.
In January this year, the Government partnered with Moreton Group to trial a fully equipped mobile GP clinic which provides bulk-billed appointments to Tasmanians who don’t have a regular GP or who do not attend a GP because of cost.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, said the program has been highly successful and will continue to take pressure off our Emergency Departments.
“Earlier this year, we launched the mobile GP clinic as a one-year trial to provide support to Tasmanians who need it most, including those who don’t have a regular GP or who do not attend a GP because of cost,” Minister Barnett said.
“I am pleased to confirm that, through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we have secured a two-year extension of this service with Moreton Group, providing an extra 9,000 appointments to Tasmanians who need it most.
“In addition to providing care to those who need it most, the mobile GP clinic will also help reduce pressure on frontline services by enabling more people to access care in the community and avoiding Emergency Department presentations at hospital and ambulance call-outs.
“The service provides walk-in bulk-billed clinics five days a week and will operate on a rotating roster that visits Neighbourhood Houses in New Norfolk, Clarendon Vale, Gagebrook and Chigwell, and at the Salvation Army in Glenorchy and Flint House in New Town.
“Subject to further evaluation, the Government will consider extending the Mobile GP Clinic state-wide.”
The 2024-25 Budget has provided $550,000 in funding to ensure the ongoing success and expansion of this excellent program.
