STUDENTS from Carrum Downs and Patterson River secondary colleges will have on-site access to healthcare when the ‘Doctors in Secondary Schools’ program is rolled out in term three.
The Australian-first program aims to make it easier for young people who might have concerns about confidentiality and medical costs to see a doctor.
Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny said adolescents had some of the lowest GP attendance rates, and many were missing out on the vital healthcare they needed.
“This innovative program commencing at Carrum Downs Secondary College and Patterson River Secondary College will help address barriers preventing students in Carrum District from seeing a doctor,” she said.
Under the program, the health records of young people will be confidential and managed according to law.
School-based doctors will decide whether students are mature enough to consent to treatment or whether parent or carer consent is needed.
See education.vic.gov.au or call 1800 809 834 for more information.