Macquarie University provides a comprehensive general practice clinic, located opposite to Macquarie University Hospital. The clinic is available to Macquarie staff and students, as well as the general public.
Staff who have recently used the service would have noted the clinic service model has changed in 2016. The clinic is no longer bulk-billing all clients, but will provide a fee structure with the associated rapid Medicare rebate processes that represents excellent value to University clients.
While there has been some understandable disappointment about the changes, most clients have recognised the clinic must be financially sustainable in order to provide first-class medical care. Discounted services are still available to those with financial disadvantage, as well as for students, children and health concession card holders.
“Our vision is for the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and associated facilities, including the Hospital and associated clinics, to be integrated with, and responsive to, the needs of our communities,” says Clinical Director of Primary Care at Macquarie University, Professor Simon Willcock.
“While we will continue to provide the highest quality of care to patients who are unwell, current best-practice in health care recognises the need for effective primary care services that work with patients to maintain good health and prevent illness. We are proud to be able to offer a range of specialist and generalist practitioners and services to the members of the University and local communities.”
“I believe the location of the integrated clinic is a real advantage for staff, students and the broader local business and residential community,” continues Simon. “Our affiliation with the University through the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences encourages synergy between education, research and service delivery and we encourage new patients and feedback from existing patients as we continue to build a sustainable health centre that models world’s best practice health care.”