Premier

A Busy Summer For Phillip Island’s 24/7 Medical Service

15 February 2019

The Andrews Labor Government’s free, 24-hour medical and nursing service on Phillip Island has already treated more than 1,600 locals and holidaymakers this summer.

Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos today visited the minor injury and illness clinic at the Phillip Island Health Hub in Cowes, which opened on December 21.

With thousands of tourists flocking to Phillip Island every summer, the Labor Government fast-tracked the island’s new 24-hour medical service to give families the peace of mind they deserve.

The service has seen a doctor and nurse stationed at the centre night and day providing care for minor injuries and illnesses. Most presentations have been visitors with conditions including ear aches, minor wounds and back pain. It has also reduced pressure on the Bass Coast Health’s emergency department in Wonthaggi.

Refurbishment works to increase the range of services offered at the Phillip Island Health Hub will start soon and are expected to be completed this year.

The 24-hour, seven-day-a-week service and refurbishments are the first part of the transformation of the Phillip Island Health Hub into a new flagship community hospital.

When complete, as well as a 24-hour urgent care service, the new community hospital will feature day surgery and allied health services, a pharmacy, renal dialysis, diagnostic imaging and pathology services, dental services, family violence support and maternal and child health services.

The Labor Government will invest $675 million to build, upgrade or expand ten community hospitals across Victoria. The state-of-the-art hospitals will ensure that families can access even more care closer to home.

At Bass Coast Regional Health, the Labor Government is investing $50.5 million in 2018/19 – the funding for Bass Coast Regional Health has increased by $18.36 million, or 57.1 per cent, since 2014/15.

We’re also getting on with a $115 million expansion of Wonthaggi Hospital which includes a bigger and better emergency department and new and refurbished operating theatres and inpatient rooms. When complete, it will treat an extra 26,000 emergency patients per year.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos

“We’re delivering billions of dollars in record funding to ensure our hospitals can treat more patients than ever and building world-class new facilities that doctors and nurses need to keep us healthy and save lives.”

“Every local and visitor who comes to soak up the sun and surf in this beautiful part of the world deserves peace of mind that the very best care is just around the corner and this fantastic 24-hour facility is doing just that.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale

“The local community have told us they need round-the-clock care on Phillip Island – that’s exactly what we’re doing as we get on with delivering a dedicated community hospital for the island.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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