GP super clinics a step closer

Joint Media Statement

Enhanced primary health care for communities in Western Australia's eastern and northern suburbs is now a step closer, with the release of invitations to apply for two new GP Super Clinics in Midland and Wanneroo.

WA Health Minister Dr Kim Hames encouraged interested parties to apply to establish the new clinics, which will be jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments.

"The Liberal-National Government is matching the Federal contribution and providing up to $5million towards the establishment of each clinic," Dr Hames said. 

The Minister said community consultations held in August to discuss the new clinics had been well attended.

The Commonwealth Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon, said she was pleased with the high level of community interest when she attended both community consultations in August.

"Both communities have a good understanding of the benefits GP Super Clinics will bring and had good ideas for what services could be included in their local clinic," Ms Roxon said.

"I am pleased the Western Australian Government has agreed to match the $5million Commonwealth investment, meaning both communities have $10million for their GP Super Clinics."

Dr Hames said the new clinics would be tailored to meet the needs of the communities surrounding Midland and Wanneroo, and would bring together GPs and a range of other primary care providers like nurses, visiting medical specialists and allied health professionals.

The GP Super Clinics in Midland and Wanneroo would offer a range of benefits to local communities, as well as provide broader benefits to the WA health system.

"Local communities will benefit from increased access to multidisciplinary care, which will be co-ordinated by the GP to help manage patients' conditions better and therefore reduce demand on Emergency Departments," Dr Hames said.

"The Super Clinics will also support preventative health care and promote healthy lifestyles, while helping attract and retain health professionals and support primary health care research with purpose-built education and training facilities."

Applications for the new clinics will be open until late January 2009 and will be assessed by a joint team of Federal and State officials.

The assessment process will ensure that the successful applicants offer a broad range of services and benefits for local communities, and provide value for both Governments' investment.

Further information on GP Super Clinics and the application process can be accessed at http://www.health.gov.au/gpsuperclinics and http://www.health.gov.au/tenders

Federal Health Minister's office: 02 6277 7220