By Mikayla van Loon
Upper Yarra residnts who are suffering from Covid-like symptoms, respiratory illness or breathing concerns can access free consultations at a new GP respiratory clinic (GPRC) established in Lilydale.
The State government-funded facility run by EACH and the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN) is a specialised treatment and assessment clinic for anyone experiencing conditions like asthma, hayfever, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema pneumonia, influenza or mild shortness of breath.
EACH CEO Natalie Sullivan said as the community enters into the height of winter there are concerns about the rise in respiratory illnesses.
“As we enter winter and see a rise in Covid-19, influenza, and other respiratory viruses that could overload the hospital and broader primary health system, GP Respiratory Clinics have a vital role in relieving pressure on our health systems, especially emergency departments,” she said.
Seeing the impact Covid-19 had on hospitals with the influx of patients, a plan was put into motion to offer as many alternative services as possible in local communities.
“The clinic has been conveniently located within the local community so people can access respiratory testing and treatment without going to the hospital,” a spokesperson said.
“By being a dedicated and free service for respiratory illnesses, this clinic can support the wider primary health system to free up appointments for other health conditions, especially through winter as we anticipate a rise in respiratory illnesses.”
EMPHN CEO Janine Wilson said directing people towards general practices will be a great assistance to health services in the Yarra Ranges.
“We can see that practices and other health services are already in demand and this new GP respiratory clinic can help assist with this need,” she said.
With the flu already taking hold in the community, EACH has recommended people stay home if they are unwell and to practice good hand hygiene, have good ventilation and wear a mask but to seek support from a GP if the symptoms persist or get worse.
People are encouraged to use the GP respiratory clinic service if their regular GP is unavailable and they are experiencing flu-like symptoms or have minor breathing difficulties.
“Clinicians at GPRCs provide comprehensive assessments and immediate illness management support for anyone with respiratory symptoms to keep them well and out of hospital.”
No referral is needed to book an appointment and it is free of charge whether a Medicare card holder or not.
The EACH GPRC is located at 18 – 22 Lakeview Drive, Lilydale and operates by appointment from Monday to Friday between 11am – 7pm. To make a booking please call 1300 097 151 or visit www.each.com.au/service/each-gp-respiratory-clinic.
To learn more about GPRC’s, visit www.emphn.org.au/gprcs for details including booking links,
opening hours and a map of all GPRC’s in metropolitan Melbourne.
