A doctor and nurse have been attending the school every Thursday for the past six weeks and Colac Secondary College doctor Robyn Walker said many students had already used the service.
‘We think young people face some barriers to accessing a GP and this service will make seeing a GP accessible to young people,” She said.
“Some of the barriers are around seeing the family GP and worrying about confidentiality.”
The State Government has partnered with Western Victoria Primary Health Network in the delivery of its $43.8 million Doctors in Secondary Schools pilot program to make sure young people receive the health support, advice and treatment they need to reach their full potential.
Education Minister James Merlino said students would be able to see the on-site GP to get on top of health problems, including mental health issues. “We know young people have some of the lowest GP attendance rates, meaning many are missing out on vital healthcare support,” he said.
Western Victoria Primary Health Network chief executive officer Dr Leanne Beagley said Colac Secondary College students would not incur any out-of-pocket expenses for GP consultations.
”Western Victoria PHN has recruited and engaged a GP and nurse to work at Colac Secondary College, where all students will be able to access the GP, subject to providing the requisite consent for the services,” she said.
Colac Secondary College nurse Caz Cole said the service was “youth friendly” and she hoped it would “reduce the intimidation of going to see a GP”.
“Colac Area Health is excited to be part of this innovative program and looks forward to working with Colac Secondary College to bring the service to students,” Colac Area Health chief executive officer Geoff Iles said.
“GP sessions will complement the youth services and programs currently available at the Youth Health Hub and will ensure students get access to medical support and related services in a timely way,” he said.
