Government Blindsided by Ramsay Clinic Shutdown

Ramsay to close 17 of 20 psychology clinics nationwide, citing rising costs and growing demand for virtual care over in-person appointments.

Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler addresses the media at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on March 30, 2023. Martin Ollman/Getty Images

Health Minister Mark Butler admitted the federal government was blindsided by Ramsay Health Care’s decision to shut down the majority of its psychology clinics by the end of August.

Australia’s largest private hospital operator confirmed this week it would close 17 of its 20 Ramsay Psychology clinics across the country, citing a shift in patient preferences and financial pressures on face-to-face care models.