A new sexual and reproductive health hub will be built in Shepparton as part of an expansion of reproductive healthcare in regional areas.
The Victorian Government has invested more than $10.5 million to deliver and expand the network of sexual and reproductive health hubs and establish three new regional hubs, bringing the total to 11.
The additional funding also extends the operating hours and scope of services at the eight existing hubs, to further improve women’s access to sexual and reproductive healthcare in regional Victoria.
The three new hubs will be based in Shepparton, Warrnambool and the Latrobe Valley, with a range of services progressively introduced over the next four years at each location.
A major focus of the hubs will be on providing access to information and services on all forms of contraception, pregnancy options and sexual health.
“Victorian women deserve access to quality sexual and reproductive healthcare regardless of where they live,” Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
“We’re ensuring Victorian people get access to the testing and information they need to make informed reproductive health decisions at all stages of their life.”
The hubs can also provide a range of vital services, including facilitating diagnosis and management of polycystic ovarian syndrome, menopause and endometriosis, and promoting local access to cervical screening and BreastScreen services.
Early diagnosis of chronic conditions such as endometriosis that affect women’s sexual function and enjoyment, fertility and overall reproductive health is critical to better long-term outcomes.
The new locations have been identified based on current demand and local availability of women’s sexual and reproductive health services.
Staff in the new hubs will also have access to online and face-to-face training and support via Sexual Health Victoria (formerly Family Planning Victoria), Royal Women’s Hospital and the Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health.