A new GP in Schools pilot program has opened to give Bundaberg North State High School students the opportunity to put their health first.
The local school has been selected to participate in the program as part of the Queensland Government's Student Wellbeing Package.
The initiative is designed to make it easier for young people in Queensland schools to access the healthcare they need.
The clinic provides students with access to a GP each Tuesday, during school terms.
A majority of services are featured including management of physical health, mental health, and sexual and reproductive health issues.
All visits to the GP are provided at no cost to students or their families.
Principal Robyn Kent said Bundaberg North State High School welcomed its inclusion in the GPs in Schools Pilot.
“Having the convenience of a regular GP on the school site may assist regional Queensland students who are faced with the additional challenge of travelling long distances to access health services,” Ms Kent said.
“The guaranteed access to a free GP consultation exclusively for students will be a great support to the school community and complement Bundaberg North State High School’s student wellbeing program.”
Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said the program was all about making sure young people could obtain the healthcare they needed.
”We know it’s very difficult at the moment to access a GP across Bundaberg,” he said.
”For young people to know they can come to a safe learning space, that is school and also be a safe health space, is a fantastic outcome.
”We know young people often don’t want to talk about their health with mum and dad or carers.
“Your teenage years can be quite a challenging time.”
GP in Schools one of 50 across state
Education Minister Grace Grace said the new clinic was a real boost for students.
“This clinic is one of 50 being established in schools around the state as part of our GPs in Schools Pilot,” she said.
“Removing the difficulty and often expense of getting to see a GP will be a great support for young Queenslanders in what have been challenging times.
“In addition to the GPs in School Pilot, the Student Wellbeing Package will ensure every student in every state primary and secondary school right across the state has access to a wellbeing professional at school.”
For more information visit: https://education.qld.gov.au/students/student-health-safety-wellbeing/student-wellbeing-package
