1800MEDICARE

1800MEDICARE (formerly healthdirect) is a free, 24/7 health advice line staffed by registered nurses.
If you are not sure what kind of care you need, or want trusted advice on a health concern before deciding what to do next, call 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 222).

A nurse will listen, ask about your symptoms and situation, and guide you to the next step – whether that is caring for yourself at home, seeing a GP, visiting a pharmacy or urgent care clinic, or being referred to a virtual care service.

You will speak with a real person, not an automated system.

When to call 1800MEDICARE

Is this right for me?

Call 1800MEDICARE if:

• you are unsure whether your symptoms need urgent attention
• you want advice on a health concern before deciding where to go
• you need help finding the right service, including after hours
• you have questions about medications, minor injuries or common illnesses
• you are caring for a child and aren’t sure if they need to see a doctor
• you are caring for an older person or someone with health care needs
• you have been told by a health professional to seek further advice and want guidance.

What to expect

What happens when I call?

A registered nurse will answer your call and ask questions about your symptoms and situation. Based on what you tell them, they’ll give you advice on what to do next.

This might include:

• advice on how to manage your symptoms at home and what to watch for
• a recommendation to visit a pharmacy, GP or urgent care clinic
• a referral to a virtual care service for further assessment
• advice to go to an emergency department or call Triple Zero (000) if needed.

If you are referred to a virtual care service such as the SA Virtual Care Service, the nurse will make the referral on your behalf and provide you with all the details. You won’t need to navigate there yourself.

Cost

What will it cost?

Calling 1800MEDICARE is free.

Symptom Checker

Prefer to check online first?

If you’d prefer to start online, the healthdirect symptom checker can help you check your symptoms and get guidance on what to do next.

Check your symptoms online.