Youth access clinics in Gippsland: Barriers and enablers to service accessibility in rural settings

Abstract

Aim: Approximately 15 years ago, four youth access clinics (YACs) were established in the Gippsland region to improve mental and general healthcare for young people living in the region. The aim of the study was to examine the barriers and enablers for young people accessing the YACs in Gippsland. Methods: Using qualitative methodology, nine female YAC staff members and seven youth YAC consumers were interviewed. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify important and consistent themes in the data derived through the consultation process. Results: Barriers under four themes were identified: environmental (eg, limited transport); service (ie, limited opening hours); client (eg, parent permis..