GP after-hours service launched

The figures were released yesterday at the launch of Perth Central and East Metro Medicare Local’s (PCEMML) new campaign to promote the use of after-hours GP practices as an alternative to going to hospital.

Morley came in at number one on the list of the top 10 suburbs with low acuity or non-urgent callouts in the PCEMML catchment area ” spanning 15 local government areas across western, eastern and north-eastern parts of Perth.

PCEMML chief executive Leanne Durrington said she hoped the campaign, which was launched at St John Ambulance’s Morley Depot, would encourage more people to use GP After Hours practices when suitable.

‘The campaign is about ensuring the community understands the choice, value and convenience of using their local GP After Hours instead of turning to emergency health services,’ she said.

St John Ambulance deputy chief executive Anthony Smith said it was great to see some real alternatives to emergency departments.

‘Having said that, we would always encourage people to call triple zero (000) for an ambulance if they were unsure of what service to access,’ he said.

Visit www.percyspractice.com.au.