Dental service relocates to Barwon Health North

Dental assistant Lulu Yohel and Dr Shirley Chong are ready to help patients at Barwon Health North. (Supplied)

A new dental facility is open at Barwon Health North following its relocation from Corio Community Health Centre.

The Barwon Health North Dental Service on 155 Princes Highway, Norlane, officially opened on Wednesday May 8.

Barwon Health Oral Health director Associate Professor Michael Smith said the move was made possible by a $5.3 million investment from the state government and the Barwon Health Foundation.

“Corio was one of the first Community Health Centres and has served the local community very well for 50 years,” he said

“But it was time for this service to move to a clinic that is better equipped to meet contemporary standards for dental care…as poor oral health is associated with many other health conditions.

“Improving access to dental care for people in the northern suburbs is an important step towards enhancing the health and wellbeing of our community.”

The relocation of the dental service is intended to help connect patients to other services like the Urgent Care Centre and specialist clinics at the facility.

Barwon Health Foundation acting executive director Francis Trainor said he was thankful for everyone who supported healthier futures for the community.

“Barwon Health Foundation and its community, supporters and partners are proud to see fundraising efforts for the Project North Appeal come to fruition today,” he said.

“Our $2 million contribution to the new Barwon Health North dental facility is a prime example of the value of philanthropy and how co-funding can help significant projects.

“The Project North Appeal was all about providing that extra level of support to the people of Geelong’s northern suburbs, who deserve the very best health and wellbeing.”