In January, the State Government announced Bass Coast Health (BCH) would be part of the new Bayside local health service network, rather than Gippsland, as originally proposed.

Gippsland Southern Health Service (GSHS) was also selected to merge into the new Bayside, along with Alfred Health, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem (Caulfield South), Kooweerup Regional Health Service and Peninsula Health.

Last week, the boards of BCH and GSHS said in recognition of the benefits of closer collaboration and streamlined care pathways, they made the decision to join the merger.

Effective January 1, 2026, all five health services will come under the banner of Bayside Health, with the names of local hospitals and healthcare sites to all remain unchanged.

GSHS CEO Louise Sparkes and Interim BCH CEO Professor Simone Alexander said the new health service will improve healthcare access across south-east metropolitan Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, South Gippsland and the Bass Coast.

"This merger means patients will have easier access to more complex care, and they'll have more specialist options available to them," Ms Alexander said.

"Benefits for staff also include greater career development opportunities, like working with a range of experienced clinicians and practitioners, if they choose to do so.

"Our staff and community will be engaged throughout the process, as we build even stronger relationships across Bayside Health."

Ms Sparkes said the merger strengthens partnerships as part of the broader health reform, "improving access to specialised care for South Gippsland residents and ensuring a seamless patient experience".

Partnerships

The CEO's said GSHS and BCH already work closely with their health service partners to support patients across Victoria, stating "this merger is the next step in strengthening these partnerships, making healthcare more accessible and efficient, while ensuring better patient outcomes".

They said further updates will be provided as planning progresses, ensuring transparency and engagement with staff, patients and the community.

When the government announced the new networks in January, the news that BCH would be part of the Bayside network was met with applause.

President of the Phillip Island Medical and Health Action Group (PIMHAG), Peter Paul said he was over the moon at the announcement.

"This is not just good news for our community, it is an overwhelming victory for common sense."

Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale was also delighted with the announcement.

The initial proposal that Bass Coast Health be part of the Gippsland network, was strenuously opposed by former CEO Jan Child, BCH board and management, and PIMHAG.

In December 2024 PIMHAG issued "a call to action" by the local  community, asking residents to lobby Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas for BCH to be part of Bayside.