The sudden closure of the Leongatha Healthcare Group has left the community in shock, prompting immediate action to address the healthcare needs of affected patients. On March 25, 2024, patients who relied on the clinic for medical care found themselves without access to their usual healthcare providers, following an abrupt announcement to staff late on March 22 that the clinic would cease operations immediately.
As the community grapples with this unexpected loss, Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath stepped in to assist displaced patients outside the now-closed facility located at 14 Koonwarra Road in Leongatha. Over the course of four hours, she engaged with individuals arriving for appointments, providing guidance regarding their urgent healthcare needs.
“Everyone is just pitching in together now, trying to do their best,” Ms Bath remarked while discussing the community’s response. She noted that the Urgent Care Clinic at the nearby Leongatha Hospital is prepared to accommodate patients who were unable to secure alternative appointments. The Urgent Care Centre is now operating with additional staff to handle the influx of patients, many of whom previously had appointments at the Leongatha Healthcare Group.
The Urgent Care Centre is available from 08:00 to 21:00, seven days a week, to assist those requiring continuity in their healthcare. “If you haven’t been able to make other arrangements and still need to see a doctor, you’re welcome to present at the Urgent Care Centre,” Ms Bath clarified. She emphasized that while patients may not be able to see their usual doctors, there will be healthcare professionals available to help address their concerns.
Reports indicate that approximately 50 additional patients visited the Urgent Care Centre on the first day following the closure, highlighting the immediate demand for medical assistance in the area. As patients expressed uncertainty and concern, Ms Bath’s presence provided some reassurance during this challenging time.
The Leongatha Memorial Hospital has issued a statement confirming their commitment to supporting the community during this transition. According to Chief Executive Officer of Bayside Health Regional Care Group, Louise Sparkes, the hospital is collaborating with the Department of Health and local clinicians to ensure that community members continue to have access to necessary medical care.
“While this practice is not part of Leongatha Memorial Hospital or Bayside Health, we are working closely to help maintain community access to care and minimize disruption,” Ms Sparkes explained. She reassured the public that all other hospital services remain operational as usual.
For those experiencing emergency or life-threatening conditions, the urgent directive remains to call 000 or head to the nearest emergency department. Additionally, free health advice is available through Nurse-On-Call at 1300 60 60 24 or via the Virtual Emergency Care service in Victoria.
As the community rallies to adapt to this sudden change in healthcare provision, the focus remains on ensuring that individuals have access to timely medical support while longer-term solutions are considered. With a commitment to collaboration and community welfare, local officials and healthcare providers are determined to minimize the impact of this closure on Leongatha residents.
