THE Hunter's GP Access After Hours service has been given a late reprieve by the federal government.
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The Department of Health this week advised Hunter Medicare Local chairman Dr Trent Watson that it would continue the funding for 12 months.
The reprieve follows a week of widespread community outrage and a petition, which garnered 2000 signatures.
"The level of support has no doubt clearly demonstrated to the government and Department of Health how greatly appreciated and valued this service is by our community," Dr Watson told The Newcastle Herald.
When the government failed to allocate funding for the service in the Budget, there were concerns that it would be forced to close.
The service provides over-the-phone medical advice, and arranges appointments for patients at one of five Hunter clinics, including at Westlakes Community Health Centre in Toronto.
The call centre co-ordinates after-hours GP care involving more than 240 GPs and GP Access After Hours employs about 100 nursing and support staff.
