Media release: Award nomination recognises innovation in rural after-hours healthcare
- jmcnamara452
- Nov 5
- 2 min read
An innovative after-hours GP service that makes healthcare more accessible for rural Victorians has been named as a finalist at the upcoming Gippsland PHN Primary Health Awards.
Delivered by The Healthy Communities Foundation Australia (THCFA), the Health Access GP After Hours program has been named as a finalist in the ‘Courageous Innovation’ category of the awards.
The service provides timely and free virtual GP consultations to Gippsland residents outside regular GP clinic hours – helping to reduce avoidable emergency department visits and ease pressure on already stretched local GP services.
Between 2023-2025, the service delivered 1,690 consultations to more than 1,300 people across Gippsland. Uptake of the service is particularly strong among older adults, young families and residents in disadvantaged areas - suggesting the free service and phone access eliminate both cost and transport barriers that disproportionately affect these groups.
In a survey of users, more than 94% said they would use the service again, citing convenience, timeliness and quality of care
The program works in close partnership with local GPs, pharmacists and hospitals, ensuring every patient’s usual doctor receives a follow-up summary to maintain continuity of care.
THCFA Chief Executive Officer Richard Cheney said without access to the service, many non-urgent patients would likely present to a hospital emergency department.
“The service helps to address this need remotely – freeing up resources and capacity for more urgent needs,” Mr Cheney said.
Mr Cheney said the program is an example of how technology and collaboration can break down traditional barriers to care.
“The Health Access GP After Hours service demonstrates what’s possible when virtual care is designed around community needs. Thanks to smart use of technology, we provide people with convenient, high-quality health care from the comfort of their home.”
The service is continuing with THCFA using user feedback to further refine the model and explore safe ways to extend access to care – particularly in rural and remote communities.
The Gippsland PHN Primary Health Award winners will be announced on November 19.
< To arrange an interview with Richard Cheney please contact Julie McNamara >
Media contact:
Julie McNamara
Media and Communications Manager
0419 595 688
