THE virulent strain of influenza working its way trough the Toowoomba population has put a strain on GP services forcing one provider to launch a recruitment drive for extra doctors.
The deadly flu has already claimed 192 lives nationally and at least 25 across Queensland.
House Call Doctor treated more than 300 patients for flu-like symptoms in Toowoomba so far this year.
CEO Wayne Ormond said doctors from Brisbane and interstate were flown to Toowoomba to meet patient demand during 2018 and a similar contingent will needed for 2019.
“House Call Doctor already has extra doctors rostered on more shifts and with the worst of the flu season ahead of us, we are putting the call out for more doctors to join the service to help cope with patient demand at night and on weekends,” he said.
“There have been close to 20,000 flu cases already this year in Queensland and we are urging people to get the flu vaccine and if they are sick, stay home from work and keep children home from school.
“The best time to get vaccinated is now, so people should be going to their GP to have the flu shot before the worst of the flu season hits.”
The home visit doctor service launched in Toowoomba in July 2015 and cares for more patients in the after hours across regional Queensland than any other provider.
More in-home doctors would reduce the stain on the hospital system with Department of Health figures showing 32 per cent of people who go to hospital emergency departments could be treated by a GP.
If you’re interested in working with House Call Doctor, email [email protected].
Original source: Toowoomba Chronicle | 1 July 2019
