Medicare Local

A Medicare Local is a primary health care organisation which was established as part of the Australian Federal Government's National Health Reforms. Sixty-one Medicare Locals have been established across Australia. Macedon Ranges and North Western Melbourne Medicare Local was formed on 29 February 2012. We service a large area including localities... as far apart as Kyneton and Footscray. Why have Medicare Locals? Medicare Locals have been formed to enhance coordination of primary health care in Australia. Although Australia's health system compares favourably with those in many other countries, services are fragmented and duplicated. There has also been much emphasis on the treatment of illness in the acute/hospital settings causing financial strain on the health system. Medicare Locals support the provision of care in a range of community settings with the aim of keeping people healthy and minimising unnecessary hospital admissions. This is particularly important in light of the rising burden of chronic disease and the need for a coordinated approach to management of these conditions. What does Macedon Ranges and North Western Melbourne Medicare Local do? Macedon Ranges and North Western Melbourne Medicare Local is more than just an office dealing with organisations and health professionals. We aim to integrate all areas of primary health care, be it community based or first point of call. We drive improvements in primary health care and ensure that services are better tailored to meet the needs of local communities. The functions of Macedon Ranges and North Western Melbourne Medicare Local are: We improve co-ordination between primary health care, hospitals and aged care. We assess the needs of local communities, identify gaps in services and implement strategies to improve health services. We facilitate multi-disciplinary team-based health care for people with chronic conditions or complex needs. We assist patients and health professionals to navigate the health care system. We facilitate more accessible ...Read More