Eleven individuals and teams, covering general practice, psychology, nursing and multidisciplinary teams, are Victoria'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.
Victoria led the country in nominations and finalists, spanning metropolitan and regional areas.
The 11 Victorian finalists have been recognised for their significant contributions, including a GP known for her focus on the veteran community, health services for people seeking asylum, compassionate support for patients with drug dependency and the founder of a bulk bulling multidisciplinary service for the migrant community.
Victoria's finalists are:
Dr Mohammed Alebrahimi
Dr Lester Mascarenhas
Dr Nalin Fonseka
Dr Belinda McDonald
Dr Geetha Venkatram
Chloe Jansz, Director of Nursing
Erin Dolan, Clinical psychologist
Springs Medical
WRAD Health Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence Program
Cabrini Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub - Primary Care
GROW Clinical Psychology
These are the first finalists to be announced, with finalists from other states and territories to be announced in coming weeks.
The finalists will be celebrated, and Medicare Champions announced, at the Stronger Medicare Awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra on 4 November 2024.
