Daniel Andrews announces women’s health clinic election promise

Countless Victorian women could soon access many of their healthcare needs in one place under an ambitious election promise.

Victorian women could soon have a host of their health issues treated in one place under an ambitious election promise by the state government.

Premier Daniel Andrews made the announcement on Tuesday morning, saying the decision was an attempt to spotlight and help treat certain health conditions.

The $71m plan would centre on 20 comprehensive women’s health clinics across Victoria.

These would cost the state $58m and become a one-stop shop for women needing treatment or advice on issues from contraception to pelvic pain.

Mr Andrews said the clinics would aim to position many of women’s healthcare needs in one place.

“For too long, too many women haven’t been listened to and their health issues have been ignored. This plan will transform women’s healthcare, ensuring every Victorian woman can access the support and treatment they need and deserve,” he said.

Premier Daniel Andrews has pitched a $71m plan at women. Picture: Mike Dugdale

“Some of the most common conditions experienced by women go undiagnosed and untreated – tragically, sometimes until it’s too late. This is about making sure women have the care, and peace of mind, they need.”

The clinics would be used to treat period pain, fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic pain and polycystic ovary syndrome and manage menopause symptoms.

Aboriginal health organisations would also be consulted to deliver dedicated Aboriginal-led women’s health clinic that would provide tailored support for Indigenous women.

One hundred extra specialists to support the training and recruitment of workers for the new clinics would be required under the plan at a cost of $2m.

A further $5.3m would be spent on a mobile women’s health clinic to visit remote parts of the state and $6.4m would be used to establish another nine sexual and reproductive health hubs.

The hubs provide information to women about contraception and pregnancy options, including clinical services for women who choose long-acting reversible contraception methods and support services for women who opt for medical termination of pregnancy.