New Lake Grace Medical Centre to boost region's future: Minister

21/10/00
The new Lake Grace Medical Centre is a major step forward in the future development of the region, Health Minister John Day said today during the opening of the $695,000 facility.
Mr Day said the medical centre clearly demonstrated a strong commitment between local and State Governments and the community in successfully working together to achieve a common goal.
"The purpose built centre will also assist in the attraction and retention of medical practitioners to Lake Grace," he said.
The centre, which adjoins the Lake Grace District Hospital, is a jointly-funded project between the WA Health Department, Lake Grace Shire Council, Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, and the Wheatbelt Development Commission.
Mr Day said undertaking such a joint venture was in keeping with the consolidation of health service delivery strategies in smaller rural centres.
"This project, combined with other facilities such as the District High School and the Telecentre/Resource Centre, will enable Lake Grace to become an even more attractive location for business and government agencies servicing the region," he said.
"The new centre provides a combined health complex with two doctors' surgeries, a dental surgery, a home and community care co-ordinator and a range of allied health services from a physiotherapist to mental health practitioners, with a strong focus on child and community health."
Mr Day said the importance of access to quality health services, particularly the young, was a key factor when prospective employees made decisions on relocating their families.
"The Lake Grace community can only benefit from this top-class combined health complex," he said.
Media contact: Carole Cowling - 9213 6600