Make your health a priority this year

Women in the Central Goldfields and surrounding areas have more options than ever to take charge of their health, with dedicated services available at the Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS).

“We’re here to remind you that your wellbeing matters”, said Nickola Allan, CEO, MDHS.

“We provide a number of accessible high quality health services including the Well Women’s Clinic, Sexual and Reproductive Advice Clinic and Maryborough BreastScreen, run in partnership with BreastScreen Victoria.

“Whether it’s preventative care, reproductive health, or life-saving breast screen cancer screening, these services empower women, girls, people with a cervix, and gender-diverse individuals to make informed decisions about their health,” she said.

The Sexual and Reproductive Advice Clinic (SaRA) at Maryborough Hospital provides free and confidential services without referral.

“The clinic is run by Endorsed Midwives who provide a range of services, from exploring contraceptive options to early pregnancy decisions, and managing pelvic pain.

Located next door, the Well Women’s Clinic is run by a team of skilled female nurses focusing on preventative health.

Services include cervical screenings (including self-collection), advice on breast checks and guidance on managing period problems and menopause.

“We believe every woman deserves access to the care she needs to thrive, and our compassionate team is committed to creating a safe, respectful space for all,” said Mrs Allan.

Local woman also have better access to lifesaving breast cancer screening at BreastScreeen Maryborough, located at Maryborough Hospital.

The BreastScreen Victoria clinic provides free 10 minute breast screens to women and trans and gender diverse people aged 50 to 74 with no breast symptoms, every 2 years.

“Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and we encourage regular screenings,” said Mrs Allan.

“We know that early detection is the key to saving lives because it increases the chances of successful treatment.

“A breast screen every two years for women aged 50–74 can detect cancer before any symptoms appear,” she said.

For First Nations women, MDHS Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers (AHLO) provide culturally sensitive support and advice when it comes to your health.

They’re here to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples navigate different health services, access additional resources and ensure culturally appropriate care.

“Being proactive in managing your health and identifying potential health issues early can make all the difference,” said Mrs Allan.

“Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the care needed to stay healthy and empowered,” she said.

For more information or to make an appointment, visit mdhs.vic.gov.au.

To book a breast screen call 13 20 20 or visit breastscreen.org.au.