Is there a similar NHS Direct type service in Australia?

Where you can phone up for advice etc.?


Alistair.

Healthdirect - is currently available in WA, NT, ACT and SA - 1800 022 222

Will be introduced in NSW and TA by 2011.

Kareena

Queensland have 13 HEALTH. Excellent service.

People in some areas of NSW should be able to use that number already (from 24 August 2008).
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/2008/20080824_00.html

However there does appear to be very little information on it for NSW, other than: "The Australian Government and the Governments of ACT, NSW, NT, SA & WA jointly own and fund this network - NSW has contributed $29 million to help fund it"

Used this service a couple of times. Very similar to NHS Direct but often referred to hospital when because they like to be safe than sorry.

What about QLD? As we're in Brisbane at the moment.

I thought that Queensland==QLD

13 health is exactly the same. When I called them, they suggested I call an ambulance and go straight to hospital! Really not necessary and I didn't. I was fine, no symptoms cept a bit of bruising, had had a head injury 3 days before, did end up driving self to hospital, 5 hours later all clear

What about VIC - or are we the poor neighbours?

seems they do:
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/nurseoncall/about.htm

Thanks - that's terrific.

Nah, that's Tasmania

We should get it by 2011, they reckon.

Sam