Secondary students in Dandenong and Noble Park will soon have access to the healthcare they need thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Gabrielle Williams today announced the commencement times for the Doctors in Secondary Schools programs at three local schools.

Oakwood School in Noble Park will offer the program from Term 1 this year, while Dandenong High School and Lyndale Secondary College will roll-out the program to students in Term three 2017 and Term one 2018 respectively.

The Doctors in Secondary Schools program will enable students to access the support they need early on before health problems affect their studies, including referrals to specialists.

The Australian-first program will help tackle barriers preventing young Victorians from accessing healthcare, such as concerns about confidentiality, cost and not knowing where to go.

As is the case with all GPs in the community, Doctors will decide whether students are mature enough to consent to treatment or whether parent or carer consent is needed. The health information of young people will be confidential and managed according to law.

Families with children at participating schools can find further information about the program, as well as a fact sheet at: http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/health/Pages/doctors-secondary-schools.aspx.

Quotes attributable to Gabrielle Williams, Member for Dandenong

“We know adolescents have some of the lowest GP attendance rates, meaning many are missing out on the vital healthcare they need.”

“This innovative program commencing at our local secondary schools will help address barriers preventing students in Dandenong from seeing a doctor.”

“Dandenong students will be able to see a GP on-site and get on top of health problems early, including mental health issues.”