Multi-disciplinary care for women in Bacchus Marsh

A new women’s health clinic in Bacchus Marsh has gynecologists, urologists, specialist general practitioners and nurses available on the one site.

The new clinic will aim to treat endometriosis, pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, menopause, prolapse, incontinence and more, while supporting patients with contraceptive options and abortions.

Clinical nurse Kylie Jones said feedback from patients already had been that of “pure relief”.

“They’ve been really relieved that we were able to offer them more than one approach,” she said.

“When I say I can offer psychology, they are wholeheartedly engaging in that.

“Same with dietitians, physios, and basically anything I’m offering for some of these patients. They’re saying, ‘Please, I would really appreciate that referral’.”

Operations manager Kathleen Murphy said Western Health was provided funding to implement services that are developed for women.

In establishing the centre, Murphy said the health care provider took a lot of knowledge from the inquiry into women’s pain the Victorian Department of Health had conducted, from consumers and organisations like the Royal Women’s Hospital.

Eureka MP Michaela Settle received a tour of the clinic during its official opening day on Friday 17 July.

The clinic is one of 20 the Victorian government is opening throughout the state including 12 in regional Victoria.

Settle was impressed with the enthusiasm of clinic staff and the multi-disciplinary approach.

“Something I thought was fascinating is that they meet once a week to discuss, so all of the teams come together,” she said.

“That means that perhaps a doctor might learn from the social worker more quickly how to identify family violence issues. So it’s really bringing everyone together to learn from each other.”

Bacchus Marsh Women’s Health Clinic is at 10 Turner Street, Bacchus Marsh.