The Albanese Government is fulfilling its commitment to Brisbane Southsiders by selecting Cornwall Street Medical Centre as the provider for the Brisbane South Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (Medicare UCC). The clinic is scheduled to begin seeing patients on October 23, 2023.
Enhancing Urgent Medical Services
The Brisbane South Medicare UCC is part of the Australian Government’s initiative to provide easier access to urgent medical treatment. It aims to relieve pressure on the Mater Hospital Brisbane and Princess Alexandra Hospital while offering extended hours of operation, seven days a week. Importantly, this service will be fully bulk billed, making it accessible to all.
Addressing Non-Urgent Presentations
Over 30 percent of hospital presentations at the Mater Hospital Brisbane and Princess Alexandra Hospital are for non-urgent or semi-urgent care. The Brisbane South clinic is one of 11 Medicare UCCs across Queensland, strategically located to cater to the urgent healthcare needs of the community.
Continued Commitment to Healthcare
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding urgent care services nationwide. The rollout of 50 new Urgent Care Clinics is underway, exceeding the initial target of 50, with 58 centers expected to provide Australians with quality and accessible urgent care.
Making Healthcare Easier and Cheaper
The Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, emphasized the positive impact the Brisbane South Medicare UCC will have on Southsiders. This clinic will offer walk-in care, access to doctors, nurses, imaging, and pathology services, reducing the burden on major hospitals and improving the accessibility of quality healthcare.
Community Convenience
Labor Senator for Queensland, Minister Murray Watt, highlighted the convenience the Medicare UCC will bring to the community. Southside residents will no longer have to endure long hours at the emergency department for non-life-threatening issues. The Medicare UCC offers a more accessible and convenient option for urgent care.
The Brisbane South Medicare UCC represents a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services in the region and delivering on the government’s commitment to strengthening Medicare for all Australians.