Media Release - Health in Eastern Melbourne Set for Reform
Changes to our health system have been announced by the Australian Government, with the Eastern Ranges GP Association appointed to take on health reform in Melbourne’s East.
Eastern Ranges GP Association already plays a vital role linking GPs and the community, and will expand that role to become a new organisation known as Eastern Melbourne Medicare Local on 1 July 2012. Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon describes the 62 Medicare Locals across Australia as "the glue that will bring together doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals to work with consumers to provide better frontline primary health services for their local communities".
The Eastern Melbourne Medicare Local will work across the City of Maroondah, the Shire of Yarra Ranges and the City of Knox. The organisation will work in conjunction with its charter members: EACH Social and Community Health, Eastern Health, Greater Eastern Primary Health, Knox Community Health Service, Ranges Community Health and the Royal District Nursing Service, to improve access to services and make the health system easier for people to navigate.
The Association's Chief Executive, Kristin Michaels, says "we are excited about health reform and have already started preparation for the new Medicare Local.
"We're looking forward to improving access to health services in Melbourne's East. Over time people will notice out-of-hospital services can be more easily accessed, and that there is more information available about health services in their area, making the system easier to use.
Dr Barbara Inness, Chair of the Association said, "For example, say a person with diabetes is having foot trouble, a common side effect. The Eastern Melbourne Medicare Local is responsible for making sure there are enough podiatrists in our area, and linking them with GPs so that each provider knows how that person is being treated and they can be sure their care is coordinated appropriately."
"There are some great changes ahead and we look forward to making them happen", said Ms Michaels.
To find our more visit www.ergpa.com.au/programs-services/medicare-local/ or share your thoughts on health reform at www.medicarelocal.com.au
CONTACT: Kristin Michaels, CEO, Ph: 9871 1000
Sharyn Berry, Events and Marketing Manager, 9871 1000
ISSUED: 10 November 2011