Clinic breaking barriers for regional women

A NEW free mobile women’s health clinic operating in partnership between BreastScreen Victoria and the State Government is providing access to free women’s healthcare and advice across the state.

Known as NINA, the van is staffed by an experienced nurse practitioner who can offer a variety of services including sexual and reproductive health advice, STI testing and treatment, long-acting reversible contraception, access to medical abortions and referrals to healthcare specialists.

It will also support referrals for specialist care, as well as to services for mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, plus family violence.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said all Victorian women deserve to have access to the advice, treatment and care they need no matter who they are or where they live.

“Good health should not be determined by our postcode, background or bank balance,” she said.

“During a time when the cost of living has become an added barrier for many who need to access care, our mobile clinic could make a lifesaving or life-changing difference to thousands of women across Victoria.

“(It’s) bridging the service gap we know currently exists in regional and rural areas – making abortion, contraception and other critical care needs more accessible, in an inclusive and culturally safe environment.”

To find out where the clinic will be attending in the coming months, visit the BreastScreen Victoria website.