A range of free healthcare services are here to make sure you can access the care you need close to home, while reducing pressure off our emergency departments and paramedics.
Share this with your family and friends so they can be aware of the free healthcare options that are available locally.
Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED)
The VVED offers free, online emergency care for non-life-threatening emergencies. Consultations are conducted via video and accessible from your smartphone or computer. Currently the VVED delivers care to more than 600 callers every day, and with the State Government’s recent investment, this number will nearly triple in size.
Available 24/7
www.vved.org.au
Chemist Care Now
Participating pharmacists can now deliver free consultations for uncomplicated UTIs, resupply of some oral contractive pills, mild skin conditions and travel vaccinations at select pharmacies.
Over the coming months, additional common health conditions will be introduced into the program including nausea, minor wound management, allergies, reflux and school sores.
Most consultations will remain free for patients, helping local residents access the care they need here on the Bellarine without the cost of GP or consultation fees.
It can be best to call a listed pharmacy ahead of visiting to ensure a trained pharmacist is on duty to assist you.
Find out what local pharmacies are involved in the program at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/chemist-care-now
Urgent Care Clinics
Urgent Care Clinics provide GP-led care for conditions that require urgent care but aren’t emergencies such as mild infections, burns, sprains, or suspected fractures. Many clinics also offer onsite or nearby pathology and imaging services. The closest clinic for the Bellarine is in Belmont.
A new Urgent Care Clinic is open at Mernda Community Hospital. You can head there for care with non-life-threatening issues - no appointment needed.
It’s open Monday to Friday from 12-8pm. Weekend care is available at the Urgent Care Centre in Epping.
We've also opened an Urgent Care clinic at the Craigieburn Community Hospital.
Virtual Women's Health Clinic
Offering free specialist reproductive and sexual health care to all women and girls in Victoria.
This service is available without referral, offering video or phone appointments for services including cervical screening, sexual health, endometriosis support, pelvic pain support, menstrual health and menopause care, contraception, breast health and termination care.
Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
1300 003 224
To find out more or to book an appointment visit www.each.com.au
Women's Sexual Health and Reproductive Hub - South Morang
This service offers information and support to all women, girls, and gender diverse people in the community regarding contraception, pregnancy options, medical termination, sexual health testing and treatment.
Women's Health Clinic - Epping
Epping Medical Centre
230 Cooper Street, Epping
