Download the latest Eye and Ear Surgical Support (EESS) fact sheet to learn more about the program.

The aim of the Visiting Optometrist Scheme (VOS) is to increase optometry services for people living in regional, rural, and remote locations (MM2 – MM7 locations are eligible).

In recognition of the need for culturally sensitive services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, VOS funded outreach services may be provided in major cities (MM1), provided that the service is delivered in an Aboriginal Medical Service, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation or other culturally safe/appropriate host organisation.

The VOS is made up of an Indigenous and non-Indigenous component with the Indigenous component making up 40 per cent of the total annual funding allocation in each jurisdiction.

VOS is managed by CheckUP as the jurisdictional fundholder of the Outreach programs in Queensland.

CheckUP works with our Outreach service providers and local communities to coordinate and integrate optometry and other eye health services to best meet the needs of the patient.

Aims

The program’s objective is to improve the eye health of people in regional, rural, and remote locations by:

• increasing optometry services in areas of identified need
• improving the coordination and integration of those eye health services and the quality of ongoing patient care
• enhancing communication between visiting optometrists, local health providers and other visiting health professionals.

Funding eligibility

The program supports outreach services provided by optometrists.

Reimbursement

Through the program, reimbursement may be available for:

• coordination and administration support
• travel expenses
• cultural awareness and safety training for participating service providers
• upskilling local health professionals
• professional support associated with outreach services.

Download the fact sheet to learn more about the CIEH program.

Download the latest First Nations Health Outreach Service (FNHOS) fact sheet to learn more about the program.

The First Nations Health Outreach Service (FNHOS) supports the continuation and consolidation of the Medical Outreach Indigenous Chronic Disease Program (MOICDP) and Healthy Ears – Better Hearing Better Listening (HEBHBL) into a single FNHOS program. The intended outcomes include, but are not limited to:
• new and expanded existing services that primarily focus on management of chronic and ear diseases as well as ophthalmology services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• improved collaboration between local and visiting health professionals
• improved capability of local health professionals through upskilling and training
• improved culturally appropriate care.

The FNHOS is managed by CheckUP as the jurisdictional fundholder of the Outreach programs in Queensland.

Download the latest Skin Cancer Early Detection Service fact sheet to learn more about the service.

Download the flyer to view culturally significant dates for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

CheckUP celebrates the release of our 2024-2025 Annual Report.

CheckUP’s Annual Report was launched at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 26 November 2025.

Read the Annual Report HERE.

The FY2024-2025 Audited Annual Financial Report (including Director’s Report) is available HERE.

CheckUP is proud to share the progress the organisation has made in advancing health equity across Queensland. 2025 marks 26 years of operation for CheckUP, and the organisation has stayed true to its guiding purpose: to ensure that every person, regardless of geography, has access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to live well.

In 2024-2025, CheckUP supported the delivery of over 180,000 occasions of services through 17,726 Outreach health service visits across more than 170 communities, including remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

CheckUP’s Queensland Government-funded Workforce and Industry programs expanded and strengthened career pathways, sector capability, small business resilience and supported people with disability. Additionally, the Health Gateway to Industry Schools project inspired the next generation of healthcare workers through Career Expos in Cairns and Brisbane, with more than 2,500 students and industry professionals attending.

Collaboration has been central to the organisation’s impact, and the range of healthcare and workforce initiatives and programs would not have been possible without the support of our members, partners, funding bodies, Primary Health Networks, Hospital and Health Services, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations. We recognise and thank our partners for your ongoing support and commitment.

CheckUP’s CEO, Ann Maree Liddy and Board Chair, Merrilyn Strohfeldt reflected, “As we look ahead, our focus remains on strengthening partnerships, supporting workforce sustainability, expanding access to care, and embedding cultural safety and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We extend our sincere thanks to our Board, staff, outreach providers, members, partners and community leaders for their ongoing commitment and support.

Together with our members and stakeholders, we are working towards a healthier, more equitable Queensland.”