Victorian Government releases response to Medicare Locals

11 March 2011

Today the Victorian Government released a response to Medicare Locals.

The response highlights a set of principles to inform the Victorian approach as well as recommendations for governance, functions and boundaries.

The Heads of Agreement - National Health Reform states that Medicare Locals will be responsible for coordinating primary health care services in their local community, including after hours GP services.

In addition there will be public reporting on primary health care services and outcomes in the local communities and regions of each Medicare Local. The number of Medicare Locals to be established in Victoria is still to be resolved.

The Victorian Government’s response is a result of extensive consultation with key stakeholders across the state and forms the basis of ongoing negotiation with the Commonwealth Government in regards to the number of boundaries of Medicare Locals in Victoria.

While the state supports more localised catchment areas, it is recognised that ongoing work with local communities and providers is required.

Further information

 Victorian response: Medicare Locals - primary health care

To find out more visit National Health Reform. Enquiries should be directed to healthreform@health.vic.gov.au.