A bustling healthcare clinic will keep its doors open for longer to cater for increased demand.
The Caloundra Minor Injury and Illness Clinic at the Caloundra Hospital will change its hours of operation from 8am to 7pm to 8am to 10pm, after a surge in presentations during the past few months.
The centre provides essential care to an average of 70 to 80 people each day, and there has been a notable increase in patient volume, with an almost 12 per cent rise in daily visits during the past year.
There has been growing demand, particularly from working families seeking care after business hours.
There were more than 2100 presentations to the centre as a result of injury, poisoning and other consequences of external causes during the three months to June. That included almost 600 fractures.
Some of the other main presentations were for respiratory conditions, skin conditions, infectious and parasitic diseases, musculoskeletal issues, ear conditions and genitourinary conditions.
Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman said the centre was crucial for people with those types of illness or injuries.
“Many of these patients are successfully treated and managed within the MIIC, reducing the need for further transfers,” she said.
“An additional clinician will be rostered on for each evening shift, to significantly improve patient flow and minimise wait times.”
Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said the centre would provide “hands-on care for the Sunny Coast community while alleviating pressure of our emergency departments”.
“We know how hard it can be for working Queenslanders to get healthcare outside of work hours, and this funding will ensure they can get the care they need when they need,” she said.
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Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said the extended hours was “fantastic”.
“It will go a long way in providing more urgent treatment and care in Caloundra,” he said.
“This is in addition to the Miles Government’s election commitment to build a brand new satellite hospital on the Sunshine Coast that will also include its own MIIC.”
Sunshine Coast Health chief executive Dr Peter Gillies said the centre was “dedicated to delivering high-quality care and addressing the evolving needs of the community”.
“With extended hours, the MIIC will continue to be a vital resource for our communities seeking immediate medical attention for minor injuries and illnesses,” he said.
