Dhelkaya Health is expanding access to specialist women’s healthcare with the launch of its new Women’s Health Clinic at the Castlemaine Campus.
Located in Spencely House, the clinic brings together a women’s health nurse and a gynaecologist to provide a comprehensive range of services closer to home for local women and gender-diverse people.
The service has been established to address a growing need for accessible specialist care within our region, reducing the need for patients to travel elsewhere for many women’s health concerns.
Dhelkaya Health’s Maternity Unit Manager April Jardine said that accessing specialist women’s health services can be challenging for people living in regional communities.
“The Women’s Health Clinic means more women and gender-diverse people can receive timely, high-quality care close to home, supported by a team that understands their needs and is committed to providing compassionate, respectful care.”The clinic provides assessment, treatment and ongoing support for a broad range of health needs, including pelvic pain and endometriosis, menstrual concerns, menopause and perimenopause care, sexual and reproductive health, contraception and family planning, abortion services, and the management of common gynaecological conditions. This includes the clinicians having access to a weekly theatre list, reducing extensive wait times for people needing access to surgical care. Referrals to other specialist services are also available when required.
A key focus of the service is providing care that is person-centred, inclusive and collaborative. The clinic works closely with GPs and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive connected care that reflects their individual needs and circumstances.
“Women’s health needs can change throughout life and we’re proud to be able to offer a dedicated health service that supports women and gender-diverse people through every stage of their health journey,” Ms Jardine said.
The Women’s Health Clinic is another example of Dhelkaya Health’s commitment to delivering high- quality healthcare locally, providing community members with access to specialist gynaecological services closer to home, while also creating an opportunity to attract and grow a broader range of skilled women’s health clinicians to our health service and the region.
To access the Women’s Health Clinic, make an appointment with your GP and ask for a referral. For more information about the clinic, visit www.dhelkayahealth.org.au or email
womenshealth@castlemainehealth.org.au