1800MEDICARE is a free, 24/7 phone and digital service that helps people access health advice and connect to the right care. People can speak to a registered nurse about a non-emergency health concern and, depending on their needs and location, may be directed to services such as their GP, an urgent care clinic, or emergency care if required.
As a health professional, this service can also support you in caring for your patients. You and your patients can access 1800MEDICARE by calling 1800 633 422. Every call is answered by a registered nurse with clinical experience, many from emergency, primary care, or acute settings. Nurses use validated clinical decision-support tools within a rigorous clinical governance framework to assess symptoms, provide evidence-based advice, and direct patients to the most appropriate level of care.
After hours (6pm to 8am Monday to Friday, and all weekend), eligible patients may also be offered a free telehealth consultation with a GP, all of whom are RACGP Fellows. These consultations provide a safety net when a GP appointment is not available within an appropriate timeframe.
Patients can also access 1800MEDICARE via the website and mobile app (formerly the My Health app), which provide expert health information and digital tools such as a symptom checker and medicines information.
The 1800MEDICARE app is a secure and convenient way for patients to view key health information uploaded to My Health Record, and to access electronic prescriptions and their Active Script List.
Resources
The Department of Health has developed a range of resources you can use in your practice.
Practice messaging toolkit
For practices that need support communicating with patients and staff, NQPHN has developed a stakeholder communication kit to help you share key messages.
More information
To learn more about 1800MEDICARE and find support for your patients:
- Visit medicare.gov.au/1800
- Call 1800MEDICARE on 1800 633 422
- Download the 1800MEDICARE app
In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
The Australian Government wishes to advise that additional materials will also become available over the coming weeks such as easy-to-read, translated and First Nations resources. Resources can be used to support regional engagement and local communication activities.