Students at Warragul Regional College are now benefiting from free, on-site access to GPs and nurses as part of the Doctors in Secondary Schools (DiSS) program.
Drouin-based clinic Cure & Care Family Practice recently joined the college community as the local DiSS provider, offering students convenient access to health care within the school.
Warragul Regional College Principal Jai Law said students are more likely to seek support when they can see a doctor in a familiar and safe environment, rather than letting issues escalate. “We value the equity this provides our student community; all students, regardless of their individual context and circumstances have access to high-quality medical care and treatment,” Jai said.
“This initiative complements and enhances the way we support students and their families, adding another layer to the care we can provide. It works hand-in-hand with our wellbeing team and Cure & Care have been able to already build strong, trusting relationships with our school community.”
The Doctors in Secondary Schools program operates in nine secondary schools across Gippsland and is supported by seven general practices, delivering care for a range of needs including preventive health, mental health support and management of ongoing conditions.
Funded by the Victorian Department of Education, DiSS places a GP and practice nurse in participating schools to deliver regular clinics in a familiar and supportive setting.
Between its launch in 2017 and 30 June 2026, the program facilitated 7,283 GP appointments across the nine participating Gippsland schools. In addition, 4,857 nurse appointments were delivered between 2021 and 30 June 2026.
Cure & Care Family Practice DiSS GP Dr Andey said starting as a GP in the program made him realise the significant unmet needs in adolescent health and how little is understood about these young people in the community.
“I truly enjoy hearing the stories that young adults share during my consultations, as they provide valuable insights and experiences for my own upskilling,” said Dr Andey.
“By removing common barriers such as cost, time and transport, the program is helping more young people access the care they need, when they need it. This not only improves individual health outcomes but also supports broader community wellbeing, reduces pressure on local health services and encourages students to take an active role in their health,” Dr Andey said.
Cure & Care Family Practice DiSS practice nurse, Tahiad, said stepping into the program feels like bringing health care to the classroom door.
“Every session is a chance to build trust and curiosity. The wellbeing team and school staff have been instrumental in helping us integrate smoothly, connect with students, and strengthen the impact of the program,” Tahiad said.
Want to be part of the program?
DiSS offers a unique opportunity for GPs and nurses to make a meaningful impact on young people’s health while becoming part of the school community.
General practices, GPs and nurses interested in joining the program can visit the DiSS statewide expression of interest webpage.
Pictured left to right: Dr Andey, General Practitioner, Cure & Care Family Practice; Michael Yarde, Assistant Principal and Student Wellbeing, Warragul Regional College; and Tahiad, practice nurse, Cure & Care Family Practice.
Stay connected to the latest primary health news
Gippsland PHN produces a range of informative newsletters designed to keep you in the loop with industry news, important updates, insights, training and events opportunities, and much more.
Subscribe or update your preferences below.
