The impending closure of CoHealth clinics in Melbourne’s inner northern suburbs has sparked fierce criticism from the Doctors Reform Society, which blames both federal and state governments for what it calls a “life-threatening crisis” in access to healthcare for disadvantaged Australians.
“Community Health Centres were set up by Gough Whitlam in 1974, and only Victoria has continued to support and expand them,” Dr Woodruff said. “These centres are vital for Australians who can’t afford mainstream medical services. Without them, many will be left without access to essential care.”
CoHealth, a key provider of community health services, recently announced plans to close several clinics, citing unsustainable funding levels. The news has raised alarm across the health sector and among vulnerable patients who rely heavily on bulk-billed and community-based care.
Dr Woodruff warned that the closure could have dire consequences. “Now the usual game will be played by the State and Federal Governments. ‘It is not our fault,’ each will say. This is a pathetic response.”
He called on government ministers to take immediate, coordinated action. “The respective health ministers need to be locked in a room and kept there until they come up with a solution.”
Dr Woodruff was blunt in his assessment of likely outcomes if inaction continues. “Sadly, nothing remotely like that will happen. Patients will die or suffer. Governments will pretend they did what they could.”
The closure highlights ongoing tensions in Australia’s healthcare funding model and renews calls for structural reform to better serve low-income and marginalised communities.