Bendigo Women's Health Clinic Expands Services
The Bendigo Women's Health Clinic in Victoria, Australia, has expanded its range of services this week. The clinic, which opened in late 2023, provides free specialist care to local women.
New and Existing Services
The clinic's newly available services are:
- A dedicated women's health general practitioner.
- A new menopause clinic.
- A specialized pelvic floor clinic.
These services augment the clinic's existing offerings, which include:
- Gynaecology
- Colposcopy
- Cervical screenings
- Contraception services
- Menopause care
- Abortion care
Program and Funding Context
The Bendigo clinic is one of 20 women's health clinics funded through a $153 million women's health package. According to government information, 12 of these 20 clinics are located in regional communities.
"Only Labor will deliver the care Victorian women need – making sure it's free and close to home."
The broader women's health package also funds:
- A regional mobile clinic.
- Dedicated Aboriginal-led services.
- A virtual women's health clinic.
- Sexual and reproductive health hubs.
Official Statements
Premier Jacinta Allan stated: "We're backing Bendigo women with more specialist services because care should not depend on where you live."
Health Minister Harriet Shing stated: "From the middle of Melbourne to the edges of our state we're building a healthcare system that works for all Victorian women." The Minister added: "From menopause management to pelvic pain – this is about high-quality accessible care designed for women and delivered in their communities."
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards stated: "This is about making it easier for Bendigo women to book an appointment and get the health information they need close to home."
Additional Information
According to some reports of the announcement, a claim was made that under a Liberal government led by Jess Wilson, there would be cuts to health services women rely on. No specific policy details from the opposition were provided in the source material.
Information about the Women's Health and Wellbeing Program is available at health.vic.gov.au/public-health/womens-health-wellbeing-program.