Keep emergency for emergencies

More than 1 million people went to emergency departments last year, when they could have been treated by a doctor or pharmacist instead.

If you’re not sure if it’s an emergency, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and talk to a registered nurse. They can help you decide if you need to see your doctor, pharmacist or go to an emergency department.

In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

Information about our emergency departments

Online symptom checker

Use the online symptom checker to help you decide what to do next. If you’re having trouble describing your symptoms, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and talk to a registered nurse.

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Last updated: August 2022