Concerns have been raised about Melton and Moorabool teenagers accessing medical treatment at government schools without parental consent.
Melton Secondary College, Kurunjang Secondary College and Bacchus Marsh College are among the 100 schools selected by the state government to have a general practitioner visit once a week.
Students will be able to get referrals to specialists and identify their health needs early.
The state government hasn’t decided if, and how, parents will be involved.
Premier Daniel Andrews said criticisms about parental involvement were not valid as students could already see doctors at bulk-billing clinics.
Mr Andrews said that under the Doctors in Schools program, students could get help before their medical concerns started affecting their studies.
“Happy, healthy and resilient students learn better, stay in school longer and achieve more,” Mr Andrews said.
“We know young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are the least likely to see a GP so putting doctors in schools ensures these kids have the access to healthcare they need.”
But the opposition accused the government of “undermining” parents.
Education spokesman Nick Wakeling said the program could “alienate” parents from the health of their children.
“This is an example of Daniel Andrews thinking he knows better than parents when it comes to the education and health of their children.”
Melton MP Don Nardella said the program would give students access to reliable healthcare and reduce pressure on local GPs.
