ANDREW Ramsay, federal Labor Candidate for the new seat of Wright met with Dr Peter Bevan and Dr Dapo Sotade of the Gatton and Laidley Medical Centre to discuss the options of expanding the Medical Centre in the Lockyer Valley.

“I can definitely see the need for upgraded medical services in the region, expanding or upgrading the existing clinic,” Mr Ramsay said.

“The Lockyer Valley is constantly increasing in population and health funding is needed that mirrors the growth in the area.

“This is a very dedicated team of practitioners and I am happy to lend my full support, and lobby the federal government for increased funding for GP services in the Lockyer Valley.”

Dr Peter Bevan, full time principle practitioner at the Gatton Medical Centre said: “The Lockyer Valley seems to be ‘under the radar' when it comes to planning and delivery of essential services such as health.

“The State Government appears unwilling or unable to expand health services, leaving a gap that can only practically be filled by federally funded health care.”

The federal Labor Government is committed to building a Health and Hospitals Network for Australia's future and from July 1 is investing $355.2 million for up to 23 new GP Super Clinics, and to upgrade around 425 general practices, primary care and community health services to improve access to integrated GP and primary health care.