Deal done for GP clinic operator on Magnetic Island

A NEW operator has been secured for the Magnetic Island GP clinic.

Townsville MP Scott Stewart has announced an in-principle agreement was reached between Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Latitude 19 and Dr Michael Clements to guarantee the provision of general practice services on Magnetic Island.

“Just over a month ago the community raised concerns to me about the sustainability of general practice services on Magnetic Island,” he said.

“I’m pleased to announce a new operator for the GP clinic on Magnetic Island has been secured on an in-principle basis to deliver primary care.”

Mr Stewart added that funding for GPS was a federal government matter. “If Queenslanders can’t access a local GP because it is too expensive, too far away from their home or they can’t get an appointment when they need one, this impacts their health,” he said.

“This puts extra pressure on our hardworking doctors and nurses at public hospitals and centres like the Magnetic Island Health Service Centre and Townsville University Hospital.”

Mr Stewart added Townsville Hospital and Health Service had agreed to establish a community advisory network for Magnetic Island.

“Community advisory networks are a crucial way that health service experts can engage with our communities,” he said. “CANS are composed of community members and other agencies who participate in healthcare planning for their community.

“Positions for the CAN will be advertised in coming weeks and I’d urge any residents of Maggie with an interest in healthcare and healthcare planning to consider submitting an expression of interest.”