Midland GP super clinic to benefit local community and broader health system

The establishment of a GP super clinic in Midland is a step closer with the signing of a $10million agreement with Health Integra Pty Ltd, Health Minister Kim Hames announced today.

The new clinic will be jointly funded by the Western Australian Government and Federal Government, with both governments providing equal funding contributions. 

Dr Hames said increasing access to GPs was a critical step in providing the people of WA with the best possible health care and, importantly, would help ease pressure on the public system.

The new clinic will open from 8am to 10pm, 7 days a week and accommodate privately practising GPs, practice nurses, nurse practitioners, and a range of allied health professionals including Aboriginal health workers, psychologists, physiotherapists, dentists and a dispensing pharmacy.

"Managing unplanned care is a priority for the Liberal-National Government and we have a number of new strategies developed to address the issue," the Minister said.

"Metropolitan adult tertiary hospitals have started implementing the 'Four Hour Rule' which aims to improve patient care by reducing delays in EDs and inpatient areas by streamlining admissions and discharges.

"We will shortly be announcing the successful applicants for the first round of the State Government's $8.4million Grants to After Hours General Practice Program which will complement the joint super clinic initiative.

"In addition, we will provide $27million in 2009-10 for the Friend-in-Need Emergency (FINE) program.

"These schemes will all work to relieve pressure on the public health system by reducing the demand on emergency departments and hospital in-patient services as well as increasing bed availability."

The clinic will be located in the historic Midland Workshops building at the corner of Yelverton Place and Centennial Place, opposite the proposed site for the new Midland Health Campus.