BY PETER HYSLOP
A petition for a medicare urgent care clinic has been announced by Federal MP Meryl Swanson, to provide Maitland and Port Stephens residents with affordable access to health care.
But critics say access to a free clinic has been needed in the region for years.
Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold says the region already has a clinic, but it charges a high fee.
"We have a private provider... the problem is the fee is $350, and not everybody can afford that," he said.
"I'm sick and tired of the people of Maitland being sick and tired.
"If Ms Swanson supposedly had the ear of the Prime Minister, she shouldn't need a petition to get something done.
"This Government needs to step up," he said.
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| Medicare cards. Credit: SBS |
