Independent Evaluation of the Nurse-led ACT Health Walk-in Centre

HCCA welcomes the release of the independent evaluation of the Walk In Centre by the ACT Government today.  The evalution was completed by the compiled by representatives of the Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute and The Australian National University

HCCA has consistently supported the concept of Walk-in Centres which involve the development of a community based primary care level that is complements the options already provided by general practice and the hospital emergency departments.  We believe the walk-in centre provides an additional community health care service that will improve health outcomes for the ACT community.

The report contains valuable consumer feedback and analysis of interviews with key stakeholders.  On the whole, feedback is positive, with over 80% of patients surveyed saying they would use the Walk-in Centre again and would recommend it to family and friends. Consumers are pleased to have a service that is community-based and safe.

ACT Govt is today engaging in a 6-week public consultation period on the report and we will be discussing the report with our members and encouraging their feedback, which we will incorporate in HCCA’s response.

Success of this centre supports proposals to create other walk-in centres in the City, Tuggeranong and Gunghalin.  This is an exciting opportunity to provide a range of options for consumers who require care for minor illnesses and injuries.

We look forward to further discussions with ACT Government in the development of these centres.

Darlene Cox
Executive Director