Singapore: In a bid to provide easier access to primary healthcare services, CQ medicare local has secured funding for the online service provider directory and booking system.

The CQ health search app is the idea of Ms Tracey Siddins, CQ Medicare Local marketing and communications manager. "In engaging with community and health care providers across Central Queensland, there was a consistent message that an up-to-date health service directory was desperately needed," she said. The app will cover the areas surrounding Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast, Emerald, Biloela, Gladstone.

It aims to reduce the number of non-urgent patients presenting at hospital emergency departments. The company have initiated talks with Queensland Health to install health search app kiosks in major emergency departments. This will allow non-urgent patients to search and book appointments with GPs.

Ms Jean McRuvie, CEO of CQ Medicare Local, Commented, "We see this as much more than just a website. It is a holistic online health application with a real propensity to change people's lives." The app is expected to be fully operational by October.