Expanding Access to Life-Saving Care for Our Most Vulnerable: The Hybrid Mobile GP Model

In Australia, access to healthcare can be challenging for individuals experiencing homelessness, those who are elderly, and others facing housing insecurity. For these groups, getting to a GP clinic or specialist facility can feel out of reach, resulting in unmet healthcare needs that can lead to severe health complications. Responding to these needs, the Mobile GP program was created, employing a Hybrid model that combines in-person visits and Telehealth to make healthcare more accessible, practical, and responsive.
This approach, which focuses on physical and mental health, brings medical and mental health support directly to people at homeless relief services, and community-based locations.

Why Mobile GP? Why a Hybrid Model?
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Statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show that more than 116,000 people experience homelessness each night in Australia. In addition, as housing costs rise, homelessness and housing insecurity continue to affect a significant portion of the population. For individuals experiencing these conditions, a traditional healthcare setting may not be practical or accessible. Studies indicate that people experiencing homelessness often face higher rates of chronic illness and have a life expectancy nearly 30 years shorter than the general population, largely due to untreated health conditions.

The Hybrid Mobile GP model was developed to address these healthcare access barriers by combining face-to-face and Telehealth services to provide on-demand care wherever people may be. This approach increases healthcare accessibility by delivering services through a blend of in-person visits and online support. It reduces the logistical and financial obstacles associated with traditional healthcare access, helping individuals receive medical attention on a more regular basis.

How the Hybrid Model Works: A Flexible Approach to Consistent Care

The Mobile GP Hybrid model is designed to be flexible, with in-person visits currently provided at Ozanam House in North Melbourne. To complement this, Telehealth services are available between visits, allowing for continuity of care that may otherwise be difficult to maintain.

This Hybrid model has been effective for individuals who might otherwise go without essential healthcare services. For example, an elderly person living in transitional housing may have limited mobility, making travel to a clinic challenging. Through the Hybrid model, they can receive in-person medical assessments and manage ongoing health concerns through Telehealth appointments between visits, providing them with greater consistency in their care.

For individuals experiencing homelessness, the Hybrid model can also provide continuity that is often lacking in standard healthcare. A person in temporary accommodation who struggles with mental health challenges can start their care journey with a Telehealth session and then continue with in-person support. By offering mental health services, the program works to reduce the gaps in care often encountered by those experiencing homelessness.

Addressing Mental Health in Vulnerable Populations: Movember and the Mobile GP Program

This Movember, the Mobile GP program is bringing attention to men’s mental health—a significant issue among those experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. Men represent approximately 75% of suicides in Australia, with rates particularly high among those aged 85 and over. Among people facing housing insecurity, untreated mental health issues can further limit access to employment, social support, and stable housing.

In the Mobile GP program, mental health support is offered through Telehealth. For someone dealing with housing instability, a Telehealth session may be the first step toward seeking help without the barriers associated with traditional clinical environments.

A Flexible Future for Vulnerable Australians

The Mobile GP Hybrid model’s combination of in-person and Telehealth care has shown potential in making healthcare accessible to those facing significant barriers. Through partnerships and ongoing developments, the program continues to adapt, aiming to meet a wider range of healthcare needs in diverse community settings. By increasing the flexibility and accessibility of care, the Mobile GP program is working to ensure that more Victorians can receive healthcare that suits their needs and circumstances.

With this approach, the Mobile GP program is part of a broader effort to address the complex challenges of homelessness, housing insecurity, and mental health. As it evolves, the Hybrid model aims to provide a reliable, accessible healthcare option for vulnerable populations. Through collaboration and continued adaptation, this program seeks to bring care directly to individuals, offering a practical and dignified healthcare solution for Australians who may otherwise be left without access.


About the Author
Brett is a passionate advocate for accessible healthcare and community-driven support systems. As Project Manager of the Mobile GP program, he’s committed to creating solutions that bring life-saving care directly to vulnerable populations. With a background in healthcare project management and community initiatives, Brett champions innovative models to ensure that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has access to critical medical and mental health services. Driven by a belief in the power of connection and community, Brett is also dedicated to sharing these stories and fostering greater awareness through his work in local media and healthcare integration.
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