General News
11 November, 2026
Urgent care clinic makes it easier and better
THE Cairns North Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) at Smithfield has undergone significant upgrades with a new purpose-built entrance and clinical spaces, making it easier for people to access care.
The upgrades consist of two consultation rooms, a triage room, a three-bed treatment room, reception desk and two waiting areas.
The UCC has a team of 15 GPs who rotate on a monthly roster, three nurse practitioners and a large team of experienced nurses and medical receptionists.
The clinic is open from 8am to 10pm every day for urgent, non-life-threatening conditions that can be managed without a trip to the emergency department but can’t wait for a regular GP appointment.
Since opening in March, the clinic has seen more than 12,600 patients. On average, 60 patients a day present with conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), lacerations, upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), skin infections and abdominal pain.
North Queensland Primary Health Network chief executive officer Ben Tooth said the UCC had become an important primary healthcare service for the local community.
“The urgent care clinic has already helped more than 12,600 people access timely care close to home, demonstrating the strong demand for urgent care services in Cairns,” he said.
“These upgrades will help create a more welcoming experience for patients while supporting continued access to high-quality care.”
UCC medical director Dr Angie Vico said “our doors are open to everyone”.
“We sincerely aim to provide a nurturing experience in a safe, supportive, friendly environment, within close proximity to imaging, pathology, pharmaceutical and local GP services,” she said.
Both Cairns’ clinics – Cairns North and Cairns South – are helping to ease pressure on the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service emergency department.
UCCs provide urgent care services for conditions and illnesses that are episodic and not immediately life-threatening.
