WAITING lists for health care look to improve, with construction starting on a GP super clinic in Wyndham Vale.
Work on the $15 million clinic, which will be run by ISIS Primary Care, began last week.
The clinic will include GPs, dental care, dietetics, occupational therapy, sexual and reproductive health services, along with social work and family support programs.
Announced by Prime Minister and Lalor MP Julia Gillard last June, the federal government had hoped to begin construction of the clinic by the end of 2011. Work was delayed while the government searched for suitable land. As reported by the Weekly, land on Ballan Road was chosen earlier this year.
Ms Gillard, who turned the sod of the project last Thursday, said the clinic would improve access to quality health care for Wyndham residents. “We want people to get the care they need when and where they need it and this new GP super clinic for the fast-growing area of Wyndham Vale fits the bill on all counts.” She said the centre would focus on chronic disease care and preventative measures.
A report commissioned by western suburbs councils, Western Health and LeadWest in August revealed Wyndham had a high instance of obesity and cardiovascular disease, which was linked to a shortage of GPs in the area.
ISIS Primary Care chief executive Terry O’Brien said the clinic would help address Wyndham’s 22-month-long dental waiting list by providing eight new dental chairs.
Manor Lakes Residents Association said the clinic would benefit people living in Wyndham Vale, Tarneit and Hoppers Crossing.
