East Gippsland residents have gained improved access to specialist healthcare following the launch of a new partnership between Epworth HealthCare and The Centre in Bairnsdale last Wednesday.
The collaboration established a regional Epworth presence at The Centre, enabling patients to access specialist consultations locally rather than travelling to Melbourne.
Services will now be delivered through in-person appointments, supported by telehealth for follow-up care.
The partnership addresses growing demand for specialist healthcare across East Gippsland, particularly for families, elderly residents and those living in rural areas who often face lengthy travel times.
The Centre owner Carolyn Donchi said the initiative brings specialist expertise directly into the community.
“For many residents, travelling to Melbourne for specialist appointments can be stressful and costly. Having Epworth specialists based in Bairnsdale removed that barrier and improved access to care closer to home,” she said.
