Warning that PPCC hours could be slashed

There are warnings that Priority Primary Care Centres around Victoria could be forced to slash their opening hours.

There are 29 clinics across the state, including one on Thirteenth Street in Mildura, aimed at taking the pressure off local emergency departments.

But sources have told the Age the centres are bracing for state funding cuts to meet proposed budgets.

The centres provide free care for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response.

This includes conditions like mild infections and burns, suspected fractures or broken bones.

The centres help Victorians who need urgent care get help faster, while keeping our busy emergency departments free for those in critical, life-threatening situations.