Doctors receive funding injection

FORTY-FIVE local medical practices are set to share in a Federal Government grant program aimed at supporting primary care services.

Up to $1.2 million will be spent across the Greater Bendigo region as part of the Government’s Strengthening GP Services Grants Program.

Federal Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters, said the funds will ensure medical clinics in the area continue to offer quality primary care.

“These grants provide opportunities for local healthcare services to better meet the future needs of our community,” she said.

“This is all part of our Government’s commitment to protecting Medicare and to invest in the healthcare services that people in our community need and rely on.

“We are rebuilding Medicare from the frontline helping the GP’s, helping their clinics, helping to make sure all of those local practices that are the foundation of our entire health system get the support that they need.”

Staff at medical practices can use the funds to purchase equipment, pay for training, or hire new staff.

Hargreaves Street Medical practice received $25,000, which has enabled staff to begin administering COVID-19 vaccines as well as update the clinic’s infection control processes.

The practice has also been able to hire a second nurse.