Free online women's health service launches statewide

Free online women’s health service launches statewide

Registered nurse Kim Lucas (pictured) said the new virtual health clinic was set up to provide excellence care to women across Victoria. Photo: EACH

WOMEN and girls of all ages now have access to free, expert medical advice and care from the comfort of their own homes, with the opening of the state’s new virtual women’s health clinic.

Operated in partnership with community health organisation EACH and led by specialist nurses, the clinic provides care via telehealth – either online or by phone – for a range of health services, including cervical screening, pelvic pain support, breast health and abortion.

These nurses will provide patients with an initial health assessment and treatment, and where necessary, connected patients with a GP or relevant health practitioner for additional support as closer to home as possible.

Referrals can also be made to various support services for concerns relating to mental health, family violence and substance abuse.

Registered nurse Kim Lucas said that since its opening last month, the clinic has already supported women, girls and gender-diverse people from across Victoria.

“It’s a very accessible service providing free appointments with our nurses, doctors, women’s physiotherapist and a bicultural worker,” she said.

“We’re really set up to provide excellence care to women across Victoria.”

Women in regional and remote Victoria, where services such as contraception and abortion are traditionally harder to access, are expected to benefit the most from the new clinic.

“We’re making it easier for all women and girls to get the specific care and advice they need no matter where they live – and we have made it free,” Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said.

“There is no denying the gender health gap is real and it disproportionately affects women living in regional or remote areas of Victoria.

“Our new virtual women’s clinic is helping to breakdown this and other barriers to care.”

The virtual women’s clinic is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm by calling 1300 003 224 or via a simple, secure online form on the EACH website. Visit each.com.au/services/virtual-womens-health-clinic