Residents in south-western Sydney are gaining faster access to medical support, with the Gregory Hills Urgent Care Service (UCS) recording more than 8,400 patient visits since it first opened its doors in February 2024. The facility has become an important healthcare option for the local community, offering timely treatment for non-life-threatening conditions outside busy hospital emergency departments.
To mark the service’s second anniversary, NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park joined Member for Camden Sally Quinnell during a visit to the centre, where they met healthcare professionals delivering frontline care. The service has played a key role in helping reduce pressure on nearby hospitals while ensuring residents receive quick and appropriate treatment.
The Gregory Hills facility provides care for a wide range of non-emergency medical issues that can be safely managed outside hospital emergency departments. These include common illnesses such as colds, coughs and flu, as well as sprains, sports injuries and ear, nose and throat concerns including earaches. By offering these services locally, the clinic helps patients access treatment more quickly while easing the load on public hospitals.
Delivered in partnership with the South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, the urgent care centre operates seven days a week from 8am to 8pm. The service is staffed by experienced general practitioners and nurses and is supported by both on-site and virtual diagnostic services, ensuring patients receive timely assessments and treatment when needed.
The Minns Labor Government has expanded urgent care options across the region, funding three urgent care services in south-western Sydney, including Gregory Hills. The government has also partnered with the Commonwealth to support the Campbelltown Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, strengthening access to alternative healthcare pathways outside hospital emergency departments.
For residents experiencing non-life-threatening health concerns, authorities encourage calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, a free service available 24 hours a day. Registered nurses assess patients over the phone and guide them to appropriate care, which may include referral to an urgent care clinic. Language support is also available through TIS National for those requiring interpreter assistance.
The NSW Government is also investing in a broader range of initiatives designed to reduce pressure on emergency departments across the state. These include expanded virtual care services, funding for urgent care clinics until 2027, upgrades to hospital short-stay units, improved ambulance coordination systems, increased Hospital in the Home programs and new initiatives aimed at improving patient discharge planning.
Health Minister Ryan Park said urgent care services like Gregory Hills play an important role in ensuring patients receive faster treatment while helping reduce unnecessary visits to emergency departments. Camden MP Sally Quinnell also acknowledged the dedication of healthcare staff, noting their work has already helped thousands of families access advice and treatment without needing to attend busy hospital emergency departments.
