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The Department of Health is calling on Tasmanians to know the right treatment option for their needs.
Hospitals typically see an increase in demand over long weekends, and some healthcare providers like GPs have different operating hours.
Community-based health services such as Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs), afterhours GPs, and pharmacies are available across the State and can offer fast advice or treatment for non-emergency care needs without the need for a trip to the emergency department (ED).
Healthdirect is also available 24 hours a day 7 days a week, with a Registered Nurse available over the phone or online to provide advice on whether you should manage your condition at home, book an appointment with a GP or need an alternative care option.
People requiring repeat prescriptions should also check they have enough to last the long weekend, and if not make sure they order them ahead of time.
Department of Health Deputy Secretary Brendan Docherty said Tasmanians should familiarise themselves with the available treatment options to make sure they get the right care, in the right place at the right time and help reduce pressure on busy EDs.
“Our health services are usually busy at this time of year as our beautiful state welcomes interstate visitors, Tasmanians travel to see family and friends, and some primary health providers have different opening hours.
“It's important to make sure you know where to get the right medical help for your needs and ensuring you have enough essential medications with you.
“If you are unwell and not sure what to do, calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak to a Registered Nurse is a great place to start. They can let you know what services are available near you and provide advice on what to do based on your symptoms.
“If you can’t wait for a regular appointment with a GP but don’t need emergency care, you can walk into one of the Medicare Urgent Care Clinics free of charge and without a booking.
“Other afterhours GP services and community pharmacies are also available.
“If you need emergency medical care for a serious injury or illness, you should call triple zero (000) or make your way to the nearest Emergency Department (ED) – our staff will be there for you.
“But if you go to the ED with a less urgent injury or illness, you may have to wait longer than you would with one of these more appropriate alternatives.”
There are four Medicare UCCs in Tasmania offering bulk-billed care for urgent health issues without the need for an appointment:
- Your Hobart Doctor Medicare UCC, 71 Bathurst Street, Hobart – open 4pm to 10pm, 7 days a week
- Ochre Health Medicare UCC, 232-242 Liverpool Street, Hobart – open 12pm to 8pm, 7 days a week
- Launceston Medical Centre Medicare UCC, 215 Wellington Street, Launceston – open 2pm to 8pm, 7 days a week
- Devonport Medicare UCC, My Clinic Plus, 133 Steele Street, Devonport – open 2pm to 8pm, 7 days a week.
COVID@homeplus also continues to deliver round the clock virtual care for Tasmanians with respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, providing a valuable ongoing resource for Tasmanians.
For more information about non-emergency care options available in Tasmania, visit: www.health.tas.gov.au/rightcare