Hannah Hammoud
Sunshine Hospital has been named as one of 20 hospitals that will be home to a new women’s health clinic as a part of a $153 million investment from the state government.
The clinic will provide free care and support to women experiencing conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome and those managing the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.
The centre will give women access to specialists including gynaecologists and urologists.
Western Health Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr Lauren De Luca said bringing all these services under one roof will make a huge difference.
“I couldn’t be happier that Western Health will be offering these services to women, for free, in Melbourne’s west,” she said.
“The multidisciplinary care we can offer through the new women’s clinic will allow us to manage complex issues as a ‘one stop shop’, rather than referring women to multiple clinics.
“… This clinic will improve access to healthcare for women and girls in Melbourne’s west and will provide a model of care that’s designed to meet the needs of the local community.”
The state government has also committed to Victoria’s first women’s health advisory council by July. The advisory council will provide independent advice on the delivery of their women’s health package, including how to improve women’s health outcomes, reduce gender health disparities, enhance research and strengthen the safety and quality of care.
The announcement of the women’s health clinic located in Sunshine Hospital is a follow through on an election promise made by the state government in 2022.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said this comprehensive package is about ensuring every Victorian woman can access the support and treatment they need and deserve.
“We’re creating new services, delivering more surgery and training specialised staff to deliver the wraparound care and treatment Victorian women suffering from endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, and severe menopausal symptoms need,” she said.
