Page 2398 - Week 07 - Tuesday, 30 July 2019

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needs it. That means providing many different forms of health care to address the diverse needs of Canberrans. Unfortunately, it is entirely clear that those opposite do not share our views on this matter, and continue not to support our nurses and our nurse-led walk-in centres.

Mr Hanson: That is a lie.

MADAM SPEAKER: Mr Hanson, you will withdraw that.

Mr Hanson: I withdraw.

MADAM SPEAKER: I think you were getting to your feet with a supplementary, Ms Cody.

MS CODY: I was, Madam Speaker. Minister, what can be treated at a nurse-led walk-in centre?

MS STEPHEN-SMITH: I thank Ms Cody for her supplementary. They could probably help with your cough, Ms Cody. There is an extensive range of conditions that can be treated by the walk-in centres, from suturing lacerations, assessment and treatment of simple fractures, sprains and colds, through to mastitis and eye infections. The top presentations at walk-in centres are for upper respiratory tract infections, wounds, musculoskeletal conditions, skin conditions, and ear, nose and throat concerns. Thankfully, patients are not presenting with all these things at the same time.

It is important to note that the walk-in centres do have their limits. If anyone presents to a walk-in centre for conditions that are unable to be treated there, whether more serious conditions, requiring specialist medicines, or if the patient is under two years of age, the nurses will assist in making alternative arrangements ranging from calling an ambulance in extreme situations, and supporting people’s needs while they are waiting a very brief time for an ambulance arrival, through to contacting GPs for appointments where appropriate.

Following treatment in a walk-in centre, and where patients consent, the nurses will send correspondence to a person’s GP to ensure that they are aware of the presentation, the findings and the treatment provided. Treatment protocols for the walk-in centres are managed and approved by an active committee that comprises representatives from the GP community, healthcare consumers and the ACT Ambulance Service.

New protocols are regularly being developed and implemented, such as the recent addition of the management of dental pain. I have no doubt that we will continue to see the nurse-led walk-in centres mature as a part of our comprehensive territory-wide health services, providing people with the right care at the right time. Having recently attended the five-year celebration of the walk-in centre in Belconnen and having the opportunity to spend time with the nurses there, I have great faith in the work, care and treatment that nurses in our community provide each and every day.


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