Summary
The Gladstone Nurse-led Walk-in Clinic has celebrated a major milestone - one year of delivering free, accessible healthcare to the local community.
Operated by Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service, the clinic opened in December last year and has quickly become a trusted option for families and individuals seeking same-day treatment for non-life-threatening injuries, illnesses, and other health concerns.
Staffed by a team of nurse practitioners, clinical nurse consultants and clinical nurses, the clinic has cared for more than 13,000 patients in its first 12 months – averaging around 50 people every day.
Gladstone woman Prudence Tate said her family had used the clinic several times and the nurses were “amazing”.
“My husband Mark received a burn to his foot on Anzac Day weekend and we were lucky the nurse-led clinic was open,” she said. “It was worse than we first thought so it was very reassuring to have it treated straight away.
“I also used the clinic just last week and just grateful to receive great care from the nurse and receive antibiotics, without having to wait for a GP appointment or go the emergency department.
“The nurse-led clinic is such a valuable resource. I wouldn’t hesitate to take my kids there if they were sick or injured.”
Nurse Practitioner Dale Reading said the first year had been incredibly rewarding. “Every day we see how much of a difference timely care makes for people,” Dale said.
“Being able to work at the top of our scope means we can provide safe, effective treatment right when patients need it. It’s wonderful to know we’re easing pressure on the hospital and supporting local families.”
Central Queensland Health Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said she was delighted the clinic was making a tangible difference to the health needs of Gladstone.
“Our nurse-led clinic provides an important option for people to access care where and when they need it most,” Ms Blackler said.
“It is perfectly located at Gladstone Square Shopping Centre and open early from 7.30am six days a week, making it especially helpful for families needing care before school or work.”
Ms Blackler said the clinic’s impact was recognised earlier this year when it received the Transforming Health Award at the Central Queensland Health staff awards.
“This innovative model of care is enabling our senior nurses to work at the top of their scope to deliver frontline care, easing pressure on Gladstone Hospital’s busy emergency department and supporting local GPs.”
Further information for Gladstone Nurse-led Walk-in Clinic:
- Open 7.30am–5pm Monday to Friday and 7.30am–3pm on Saturday
- Services are free for everyone (including Medicare and non-Medicare card holders)
- No bookings or referrals needed – walk-in to receive assessment, treatment and advice
- Patients who require care beyond the clinic’s capabilities will be referred promptly to the most appropriate service.
- Learn more about nurse-led walk-in clinics.