All Australians can get free, trustworthy health information and advice from Healthdirect Australia, a government-funded, non-profit organization. It was founded in 2006 and is supported by the Commonwealth as well as all state and territory governments, guaranteeing that the public can access its services for free.
What Services Does Healthdirect Offer?
Healthdirect offers a range of services designed to help Australians manage their health concerns:
- 24/7 Health Advice Hotline: By calling 1800 022 222, individuals can speak with a registered nurse at any time for immediate health advice.Trusted Health Advice+5NSW Health+5NSW Health+5
- Symptom Checker: An online tool that helps users assess their symptoms and determine the appropriate level of care needed.
- Health Service Finder: An online directory to locate nearby health services, including general practitioners, pharmacies, and hospitals.
- Health Information: A comprehensive library of health topics, conditions, and treatments, all vetted by medical professionals.
- Mobile App: Provides access to all Healthdirect services on-the-go, including the ability to connect with one’s My Health Record .Trusted Health Advice+1Trusted Health Advice+1
Is There Any Cost Involved?
All core services provided by Healthdirect are free to use. This includes the 24/7 hotline, online tools, and the mobile app. However, if Healthdirect refers you to an external health service, such as a general practitioner or specialist, standard consultation fees may apply. It’s advisable to confirm any potential costs with the referred service provider directly .Trusted Health Advice+2theaustralian+2Trusted Health Advice+2Health Voices
Recent Enhancements to Healthdirect Services
In recent years, Healthdirect has expanded its offerings to include additional services aimed at improving access to healthcare:
- 1800MEDICARE: A free after-hours GP telehealth service launched to provide medical consultations during evenings and weekends, reducing the burden on emergency departments .Health and Aged Care Australia+3theaustralian+3adelaidenow+3
- Virtual Care Services: In regions like the Central Coast, residents can access free virtual healthcare for non-life-threatening conditions, allowing them to receive care from the comfort of their homes .NSW Health+1adelaidenow+1
- Nurse Practitioner Programs: Pilot programs in areas such as South Australia have introduced nurse practitioners in GP clinics to diagnose and treat patients at no cost, aiming to alleviate pressure on hospital emergency departments