Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs) (formerly Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCCs)) have been providing Victorians with an alternative to visiting the emergency department (ED) since late 2022.

UCCs are GP-led clinics designed to improve timely and accessible primary health care, relieving busy EDs and reducing wait times. Open from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week, each clinic has at least one General Practitioner, Registered Nurse and Receptionist on site at all times. 

In south east Melbourne, four centres (listed below) support nearby hospital emergency departments and general practices by providing same-day appointments for non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses such as mild infections, fractures and burns. To increase accessibility, treatment is provided at no cost to patients. 

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in south east Melbourne 

Diverting primary care presentations from emergency departments for timely care 

UCCs are designed to relieve the burden on busy EDs and divert urgent primary care presentations to a nearby clinic, which might not be available immediately through a local GP. Delays in seeing a GP can worsen conditions, potentially resulting in a visit to the ED.  

To date, the UCCs in south east Melbourne have collectively treated more than 53,000 patients, with the top presenting conditions being infection and trauma (physical injuries due to accidents including cuts, abrasions, wounds). Based on data and feedback from staff, services and patients, all four UCCs are effectively reducing pressure on hospitals, creating a coordinated experience for patients and filling a service gap in primary care. 

Increasing primary care access for priority populations 

UCCs offer a free service without requiring a Medicare card, making them accessible to vulnerable and underserviced populations. Seeking earlier medical attention at no cost prevents the worsening of illnesses and normalises seeking medical care among vulnerable priority populations in south east Melbourne. 

Providing patient-centred health care 

Patient-centred care helps individuals take an active role and feel a greater sense of control over their health, which can lead to better management of health conditions. 

From 1 April to 30 June 2024, 95.3% of patients who attended a UCC and completed a pre and post survey (n=approx. 350) rated the quality and experience of their treatment as ‘satisfied’ or ‘highly satisfied’.  

By working together with emergency departments and general practices, UCCs have been able to provide timely patient-centred care to residents in south east Melbourne and create a more integrated primary health care model that eases the demand and supports referrals.