Residents in Gippsland seeking urgent medical treatment will soon have improved access to care, thanks to the inauguration of the region’s second Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC) in Latrobe, which follows the launch of the Baw Baw PPCC at the Warragul Specialist Centre earlier this month.

Gippsland PHN is working in partnership with LCHS to establish the Latrobe PPCC. This GP-led clinic, that opened on January 23, 2023, will be supporting Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH).

The Latrobe PPCC will run from the former Moe After Hours Medical Service (MAHMS) site, operated by Latrobe Community Health Service (LCHS), as part of the state government’s initiative to give Victorians a free alternative to visiting a busy emergency department.

Gippsland Primary Health Network (Gippsland PHN) acknowledges the MAHMS partnership and service that has provided after hours care for Moe and surrounding communities for the last 24 years. The new services at Latrobe PPCC will ensure people have continued access to free medical care with extended opening hours.

Gippsland PHN acting chief executive, Angela Jacob, said the establishment of the Latrobe and Baw Baw PPCCs demonstrated a collaborative approach across health services to support a growing community need.

“People suffering conditions such as mild infections, fractures and burns will be able to receive treatment from the Latrobe and Baw Baw PPCCs instead of having to wait in emergency at hospital,” Ms Jacob said.

“A nurse will triage and admit patients to the PPCC if suitable. PPCCs do not provide ongoing treatment for patients. Once a patient has been seen at a PPCC, they are referred back to their GP who is provided with a discharge summary.”

There is no charge for patients visiting a PPCC and patients do not need a Medicare Card. Children over the age of three months and adults of all age groups are eligible.

LCHS chief executive, Ben Leigh, said he welcomed the opportunity to play an expanded role in providing this new service.

“Latrobe Community Health Service is a known, trusted provider of healthcare services in Gippsland,” he said.

“The new Latrobe PPCC is great for the community; it will reduce waiting times for those in need of urgent care and reduce the pressure on the LRH Emergency Department. It also brings new jobs to the region, which is always welcome.”

LRH chief executive, Don McRae, confirmed the health service’s Emergency Department and staff had been under significant and sustained pressure since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“LRH is pleased to be working with Gippsland PHN and LCHS on a model we hope will better support people seeking timely treatment and care,” he said.

“It’s really important for healthcare providers at all levels to work in partnership for the benefit of our community.”

Latrobe PPCC, located at 42-44 Fowler Street, Moe, accepts walk-ins, referrals and pre-booked appointments.

Phone 5127 9111 or visit the Better Health Channel website at https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/priority-primary-care-centres-ppccs for up to date information.

Current operating hours are Monday to Sunday, 1.30pm until 11.30pm, including public holidays.