New Virtual Care Pods improve access to care for vulnerable communities in Mackay region – Northern Queensland Primary Health Network
A person who had not seen a doctor for several years was among the first to use a new Virtual Care Pod in Mackay, highlighting the potential of the innovative service to improve access to healthcare for. . .
A person who had not seen a doctor for several years was among the first to use a new Virtual Care Pod in Mackay, highlighting the potential of the innovative service to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable and underserved communities. People experiencing homelessness in Mackay, and residents of Isaac’s coastal communities, can now access bulk-billed, face-to-face GP consultations through two innovative Virtual Care Pods. Located at Chances House, in Mackay, and at the Isaac Regional Council customer centre, in St Lawrence, the care pods connect patients with a doctor via secure video technology. The trial helps to break down barriers to ensure easier access to healthcare. The average waiting time to see a doctor is 8-10 minutes, and appointments are not required. Patients can access care for a range of health concerns, including:coughs, colds, sprains, and strainsminor injuries and illnessesgeneral health and wellbeingprescription renewalsmedical certificateswound reviews and referralsadvice on attending a hospital, urgent care clinic, or clinic in personreferrals to other healthcare providers for physical examination or tests. The Care Pod isnotfor serious medical or life-threatening emergencies. If you are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, severe chest pain or weakness down one side of the body, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Mackay: Chances HouseAddress:2 Endeavour Street, MackayOpening times:Open during the operational times of Chances House and only available to their clientele. Chances House CEO Kayleight Brewster said the team was “extremely excited about the opportunities that the Care Pod brings to people experiencing homelessness. ”“It diminishes many common barriers such as the need for transport, costs, identification, and most of all accessibility to timely and effective health care. We are already seeing a positive impact on health and wellbeing amongst service users”Registered Nurse Angie Dobson said every day she saw how social and financial barriers prevented people from accessing healthcare. “The Care Pod gives me another way to connect people with the care they need, often at the time they need it most,” she said. “It allows us to provide more timely support, address health concerns earlier, and help people engage with healthcare in a place where they already feel safe and supported. ”It will be open during the operational times of Chances House and only available to their clientele. St Lawrence:Isaac Regional Councilcustomer centreAddress:36 Macartney Street, St LawrenceOpening times:24-7Isaac Regional Council Councillor Viv Coleman said it was incredibly exciting. “This is great news for St Lawrence and our surrounding coastal communities, Clarke Creek and Lotus Creek areas,” Cr Coleman said. “Living in a remote area means access to healthcare isn’t always easy. “With the nearest hospital or healthcare provider at least an hour-and-a-half away and in some cases closer to two hours, having access to a qualified GP right here in our community, 24 hours a day, is nothing short of life-changing. ”Cr Coleman said the Care Pod filled a vital gap by providing immediate access to professional medical advice, prescriptions, referrals and support, without residents needing to travel long distances. “It also provides peace of mind for our visitors and travellers passing through our region,” she said. “Every rural and remote community deserves access to quality healthcare, and this initiative is a significant step towards improving health outcomes for the people who call St Lawrence home. “I’m incredibly proud to see our community chosen to trial this innovative service and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of our residents. ”