Patients of Silverdale Medical will see a change starting today, October 15th.

The primary consultation fee has increased from $73.50 to $79.20, reflecting the centre's efforts to balance rising costs while maintaining quality care.

"We understand this may add pressure on our community, especially with the current cost of living," says Ranvani Perera, CEO of Silverdale Medical.

"We remain committed to advocating for more accessible and affordable healthcare."

Key drivers behind the fee adjustment include:

• Paying permanent skilled workers a living wage, now $27.80 per hour (up from $26)
• Healthcare delivery costs rising over 12%, contrasted with a 4% government funding increase
• Ongoing pay disparity and pay equity issues in primary and secondary healthcare

To help offset costs, patients using the myIndici portal for prescription renewals will receive a $2 discount.

Silverdale Medical encourages patients to support their advocacy for better healthcare funding by emailing Dr Shane Reti, Minister of Health, and our local MP.