NEWS
STAY INFORMED
At Stratford Medical Centre, we are committed to providing thorough, personal and high-quality care — not rushed consultations.
While bulk billing may seem appealing, it often leads to short, high-volume appointments that don’t allow enough time to properly address your health needs, especially for chronic or complex conditions.
From 1 November 2025, dedicated mental health plan review item numbers will be removed from the MBS, and several chronic disease items have been reduced. Unfortunately, this will increase out-of-pocket costs for many patients.
If you’re concerned about how these changes may affect your access to care, please email Matt.Smith.MP@aph.gov.au to share your feedback.
Our team will continue doing everything possible to keep fees affordable while providing safe, comprehensive and sustainable care.
Cystic fibrosis drug wins PBS approval
Ivacaftor, which costs up to $380k, will be listed for babies aged 12-24 months By AAP The price of an expensive drug used to treat cystic fibrosis will be dramatically reduced for the parents of babies suffering the disease. Federal Minister for Health Greg...
Cairns nurse takes long road to help the mentally ill and homeless
“When you are moving toward an objective, it is very important to pay attention to the road. It is the road that teaches us the best way to get there, and the road enriches us as we walk its length.” – Paulo Coelho Natalie Holden wondered if she was losing...
Teens see mental heath as more concerning than their education
Worry gives small things a big shadow - Swedish proverb Young people see mental health as a more important issue than the environment, bullying, education and employment. Over half of adult mental health conditions are often apparent by age 14. Young people...
Do you have skin cancer?
Australians have the highest rates of skin cancer in the world and just 30 minutes with your doctor could save your life. Most dangerous moles and spots can be successfully treated if found early and reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. A skin check is a...
Men need to know it’s healthy to talk
When you think of “men’s health”, what do you think of? Prostate cancer, physical injury? What about heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, osteoporosis? Have you ever had a chat with your GP about losing your hair, or things downstairs not working like they...