A free nurse-led primary health service in Launceston for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, a GP providing access to health care for diverse and vulnerable communities, and a nurse practitioner and manager of a multidisciplinary family practice are Tasmania’s finalists in the Stronger Medicare Awards.
In Medicare’s 40th year, the Stronger Medicare Awards recognise and honour Medicare Champions from around Australia: outstanding individuals and practices that provide exceptional care, embrace innovation, and work together to improve the health of their community.
More than 140 nominations were submitted from every state and territory, which were then assessed by an expert panel of five independent, pre-eminent individuals from the primary care sector, including a consumer representative.
The Tasmanian finalists have been recognised for their significant contributions, including improving health services to the community, providing trauma-informed safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ patients, and delivering accessible care to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Tasmania’s finalists are:
- Mission Health, Launceston.
- Dr Miranda Hann, General Practitioner, Ochre Health
- Kerrie Duggan, Nurse Practitioner, Cygnet Family Practice
National finalists will be celebrated, and Medicare Champions announced, at the Stronger Medicare Awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra on 4 November 2024.
For further information on the awards visit health.gov.au/medicare-turns-40/stronger-medicare-awards.
A media kit with details, photos, patient testimonials and quotes from the finalists is available, upon request.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“Tasmanians are tremendously fortunate to have so many great doctors, nurses, mental health and other health professionals working to keep them healthy and out of hospital, day in and day out.
“There are many people and practices working outside of hospitals in health settings in Tasmania who go above and beyond to support their patients.
“I would like to congratulate these finalists and acknowledge their commitment to selfless service, excellence, and a passion for their patients and community.”