WHITFIELD GP SERVICES AT RISK

Over fifty Upper King Valley residents met with Bill Sykes MP on Thursday 19 November to air their concerns regarding the potential loss of GP services in Whitfield.

The meeting was attended by local residents following the receipt of a letter from Ovens and King Community Health Services which said in part;

‘I wish to advise you that the Board of Directors of Ovens and King Community Health Service (OKCHS) has decided that our Company can no longer subsidise the reception and nursing services to the private GP clinics provided at the Whitfield and Moyhu sites.

The two private practitioners who practise at the Whitfield and Moyhu sites have been advised of our decision to cease these services from 31 December 2009.’

Those present at the meeting spoke strongly of the value of the one day per week GP service and the impact on people if it ceases.

A local committee was formed to pull together the history of local health services, the impact of the loss of a GP and to explore options to prevent this occurring.

Cathy Van Gastelen is interim Chair of the group.

The group propose to meet with Ann Wearne, CEO of Ovens and King Community Health early next week.

Bill Sykes highlighted to the meeting the importance of working together with Ovens and King Community Health and the GP’s involved to ensure continuation of the much appreciated service.

In addition, Bill Sykes said that he would raise the matter with the Minister for Health, Daniel Andrews to gain his support to resolve the issue.

Bill Sykes concluded, “Availability of health services is vital to country families. The Upper King Valley has been well serviced by GP Chris Lorenz and the OKCHS.

"I will work with the local community to ensure that these services are maintained."