PERTH’S newest and upgraded free mobile GP clinic has hit the road – taking doctors and health care to the suburbs including Midland and Bassendean.

The mobile clinic will come to Midland on Tuesdays at the Karnany Resource Centre and Bassendean on Wednesdays and Fridays at the Swan Districts Football Club.

The state government-funded 360 Street Doctor service provides an accessible, non-judgemental health service for people experiencing homelessness, who are transient, or facing disadvantage.

First established in 2001 by a GP who identified a need for primary health care for people living rough, 360 Street Doctor sees thousands of people every year – providing all the services of a conventional general practice – but on wheels.

The 360 Street Doctor provides more than 3,400 consultations annually – treating people across the Perth metropolitan area. This innovative service takes the clinic to clients at familiar locations on a regular timetable, often treating people who may be unwilling or unable to access more traditional health services.

“The mobile clinics are staffed by GPs, registered nurses, outreach workers, Aboriginal health practitioners, and a pharmacist,” 360 Health Allied Health and Community Services senior manager Lisa Winter said.

“They travel to selected Perth metropolitan locations based on areas of need and availability of nearby support services – co-locating with services such as drug and alcohol assistance, and mental health support so clients can easily access this help at the same time,” she said.

The newest mobile clinic is a valuable addition to the service’s aging fleet.

With a price tag of $242,000, the new truck has had a complete medical fit-out with new diagnostic equipment, an energy efficient dual power management system, and the very latest technology – including options to access telehealth services.

It has enhanced security to ensure the safety of clients and clinicians, and improved accessibility for clients who need mobility assistance.

Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the 360 Street Doctor service provides everything a traditional GP does but in an outreach environment – making health care more accessible for many people.

“These mobile clinics also create a social hub with access to associated community supports for clients attending appointments.

“It’s exciting to see the newest mobile clinic on the road – providing essential health care to those in our community who really need it.”

The Midland clinic is at Karnany Resource Centre, Spring Park Road, Midland and is operational on Tuesdays from 9am to 12pm.

On Wednesdays it is open at the Swan Districts Football Club, Old Perth Road, Bassendean from 9am to 1.00pm, and Fridays from 9am to 3.30pm.

No referral or appointment is necessary as a walk-in service is provided.

Street Doctor offers all the services you would expect from your regular GP, out of a purpose-built clinical truck, including:

• Common medical conditions and general health

• GP management plans and care plans

• Mental health

• Sexual health

• Immunisations

• Health assessments

• Minor cut and wound care

• Blood tests

• Pregnancy testing and support

• Specialist referrals

“A doctor and a nurse provide clinical services at Street Doctor, with experienced outreach workers and Aboriginal health workers providing social support to those accessing the clinic,” Ms Winter said.