Yarra Ranges Council has welcomed the Federal Government's announcement that Access Health and Community will operate the new Lilydale Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC), describing it as a significant boost for local health services.
Mayor Cr Richard Higgins said the new clinic would make a real difference for residents in Lilydale and surrounding areas.
"The addition of any health service to the Yarra Ranges is a fantastic outcome for our community," Cr Higgins said.
"Access to affordable health care is critical, and this centre will certainly bridge a gap in providing the semi and non-urgent care that is so vitally needed in Yarra Ranges."
The Lilydale UCC will operate seven days a week with extended hours, helping to ease pressure on Maroondah Hospital and provide timely care closer to home for many residents.
Cr Higgins said while the announcement was welcome, more needs to be done to ensure equitable access to health services across the region.
"With parts of our community travelling more than an hour to a local hospital, we know the provision of additional services is critical," he said.
"We will continue to advocate strongly for greater access to health services, particularly in Healesville and the Upper Yarra Valley, so that all residents can access the care they need when they need it."
The new Urgent Care Clinic will be located at 17 Clarke Street, Lilydale and will begin providing care for the community over the coming months.
