Belmont Family Medical and Bulkbilling Clinic (BFMC) has announced a significant expansion of its team, solidifying its position as a leading choice for medical care in Geelong. The clinic, under the leadership of principal general practitioner Dr. Mathew Hargreaves, is welcoming four new doctors to its ranks, aiming to enhance patient care and reduce wait times.
Joining the existing team of dedicated doctors—Tristan Crowe, Loke Ho, Gaya Ekanayake, Mun Yoong, and Lew Morris—are permanent part-time doctors Tim Blake and Caroline Taylor-Walker. Additionally, temporary doctors Vijay Ng and Monique Couch will also be offering their expertise to patients at BFMC.
Enhanced Bulk Billing Services
In a move that underscores BFMC’s commitment to accessible healthcare, the clinic has introduced a fully bulk billing model following changes in November. This development is particularly beneficial for families in Geelong and surrounding areas, as patients with eligible Medicare care cards can now receive quality medical care without any out-of-pocket expenses.
The clinic’s strategic location, adjacent to a pharmacy, pathology, and imaging center, further positions it as a convenient one-stop destination for comprehensive healthcare needs.
Comprehensive Medical Services
BFMC is a fully accredited practice offering a wide range of medical services. These include preventive health management, childhood vaccinations, and prescription management. The clinic is equipped to handle emergencies, injuries, minor surgical procedures, skin checks, suturing, vaccines, pap smears, flu vaccines, ECG, plasters, and ear lavage.
The staff is also trained to assist with family health concerns, acute care, chronic disease management, skin cancer screenings, laceration treatment, and mental health support.
Innovative Patient Management
Operating as a strictly walk-in clinic, BFMC does not schedule appointments. Instead, patients are triaged upon arrival and added to a waiting list. While wait times can be unpredictable, the increased number of doctors is expected to alleviate this issue significantly. Additionally, the clinic offers a popular service where patients can leave the premises and receive a text message when it’s nearly their turn to see a doctor.
BFMC’s operational hours are extensive, opening every day except Christmas Day and Easter Sunday. The clinic welcomes patients from 7 am to 6 pm on weekdays and from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm on weekends and public holidays. New patients are encouraged to visit the clinic at its 141 High Street Belmont location, which also offers free onsite parking.
Looking Ahead
The expansion and enhancements at BFMC reflect a broader trend in healthcare towards more accessible and patient-friendly services. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, clinics like BFMC are setting benchmarks in providing quality care without financial barriers.
With its growing team and commitment to patient-centered care, BFMC is poised to remain a cornerstone of the Geelong community’s healthcare infrastructure. The clinic’s model could serve as a template for other regions looking to improve healthcare access and efficiency.
