Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are free, walk-in services staffed by doctors and nurses. They are open for extended hours, require no appointment or referral, and are bulk billed, so there is no out-of-pocket cost.
Your GP is the best place for ongoing healthcare, but if your condition needs attention today and you can’t get a same-day GP appointment, a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic can help.
When to go to a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
When to go to a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
Is this right for me?
Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are for illnesses and injuries that need attention today but are not life-threatening. This includes:
- minor fractures, sprains or strains
- cuts that may need stitches or gluing
- minor burns
- ear, nose and throat infections
- urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- rashes or allergic reactions (non-severe)
- vomiting or diarrhoea that needs assessment
- eye infections or injuries
- children’s illnesses that need a doctor today.
What to expect
What happens when I go?
Walk in without an appointment. You will be assessed by a qualified doctor or nurse who will examine your condition, provide treatment and arrange any follow-up care you need. If ongoing care is required, they will recommend you see you a GP or another appropriate health service.
Many clinics have diagnostic equipment on site, including X-ray, so you can be assessed and treated in the same visit.
If your condition turns out to be more serious than expected, clinic staff will arrange for you to be transferred to an emergency department if needed.
Cost
What will it cost?
Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are bulk billed, so if you have a Medicare card there is no out-of-pocket cost for your consultation.
Private urgent care services are also available in South Australia, and fees may apply.
What to bring
What do I need?
- Medicare card or number
- A list of medicines you take
- Any relevant medical history or recent test results, if you have them
Find urgent care services
How do I find one near me?
Not the right fit?
If an Urgent Care Clinic isn’t quite right for your situation, South Australia has other options that may help:
