Premier opens Women’s Health Hub

Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan and Member for Ripon Martha Haylett officially opened the Ararat Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub.

The new Hub will make it easier for women and girls in Ararat to access sexual and reproductive health care.

Operated by East Grampians Health Service within the EGHS Community Health Centre, the hub offers free or low-cost confidential care with no referral required – including for contraception, medical abortion, referral for surgical abortion, and the testing, diagnosis and treatment of STIs.

It will also help avoid long-term health issues through treatments such as physiotherapy and education for pelvic floor issues, reducing the likelihood of incontinence and the need for ongoing care and possible hospitalisation.

Ms Allan met with EGHS Director of Community Services Sarah Woodburn and the EGHS GP Obstetricians Dr Winnie Yum and Dr Megan Helper, as well as staff of the new clinic, during her visit to Ararat.

“These hubs in Ararat and Horsham are closing service gaps in regional Victoria – ensuring more women can access the care they need, close to home,” Ms Allan said.

Director of Community Services Sarah Woodburn said East Grampians Health Service is excited to offer access to sexual and reproductive health care to women and girls from the Ararat region, close to home without the need to travel and without the need for a referral.

“We were pleased Premier Jacinta Allan was able to officially open the Ararat Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub, view the facilities and meet our GP Obstetricians and staff.”