October 27th, 2024Women’s health clinic funding boost for free services

The new Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub at Kyneton Health has been given a boost with extra funding allocated from the state government to significantly increase the free services offered to the local community. 

In September, Central Highlands Rural Health in Kyneton was announced as one of the 20 locations to open a specialised women’s health clinic in Victoria. 

The Women’s Health Clinic in Kyneton will provide more specialist services than is currently offered at the Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub including access to gynaecologists, endocrinologists and other specialist services including nursing and allied health support. 

It will make it easier for women to access care for conditions like endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), incontinence, perimenopause and menopause.

Work has begun to get the clinic operational before the end of the year. Central Highlands Rural Health CEO Maree Cuddihy said the organisation was thrilled to be announced as a location for a Women’s Health Clinic. 

“Historically, there hasn’t been enough emphasis on listening to women and dedicating time to their diverse health needs across various conditions. 

“Recently, we were selected to establish a Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub, which is now fully operational, and when the opportunity arose to express interest in creating a dedicated women’s health clinic, we were eager to pursue it. 

“The clinic at Kyneton Health will address the substantial delays that individuals in regional and rural areas, as well as those facing financial or cultural barriers, often experience when trying to access specialist sexual and reproductive health services. 

“We’re proud to offer these services in a locally established, supportive and confidential environment.”