We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands across which we live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ continuing connection – both physical and spiritual – to land, sea and sky.
Expanding access to free healthcare with Street Side Medics
Street Side Medics delivers free, high-quality primary healthcare to vulnerable Australians through fully equipped mobile medical units.
The Street Side Medics clinics visit areas with high rates of homelessness each week, offering care to those who need it most.
Since 2022, COORDINARE has proudly supported the Wollongong clinic, helping provide essential health services to people experiencing housing insecurity. This year, we expanded our partnership to reach even more communities in need.
On 27 May, a new Street Side Medics clinic launched in Nowra, offering free weekly healthcare to people experiencing homelessness in the Shoalhaven. Operating every Tuesday morning, the clinic is staffed by a dedicated team of volunteer GPs, specialists, junior doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.
2024/25 snapshot
Wollongong clinic:
595
patient interactions.
47
clinics held over 94 hours.
845
volunteer hours.
282
GP consultations.
60
Medical Support Officer consultations.
167
Clinical Support Officer consultations.
68
general volunteer interactions.
12
patients per clinic, on average.
Nowra clinic (first two months):
65
patient interactions.
5
clinics held over 10 hours.
55
volunteer hours.
37
GP consultations.
9
Medical Support Officer consultations.
13
Clinical Support Officer consultations.
6
general volunteer interactions.
Real impact: A story from the Nowra clinic
In just a few months, the Nowra team has already made a meaningful difference in the lives of many. One story stands out:
A patient began attending the clinic weekly for blood pressure monitoring and supportive conversation. Over time, this regular contact built trust and comfort, allowing clinicians to explore deeper health concerns.
The patient shared a family history of bowel cancer, having lost a parent to the disease. During a consultation, the GP identified potential gastrointestinal symptoms and promptly referred the patient to a local specialist. This timely action enabled important investigations that previously had not been undertaken, to be addressed.
The patient was able to attend an appointment, bulk-billed by a local specialist. As the appointment became available at short notice, the team worked with the Homeless Hub to locate and contact the patient promptly, enabling them to attend without delay.
This experience highlights the importance of continuity of care, trust-building, and collaboration in achieving positive health outcomes for people who might otherwise remain underserved.
Together, COORDINARE and Street Side Medics are breaking down barriers to healthcare through trusted relationships, continuity of care, and strong local partnerships.
Visit our website to learn more