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Virtual care

Speak with a doctor or nurse by phone or video without leaving home.

Virtual care lets you speak with a doctor, nurse or experienced health professional by phone or video from anywhere in South Australia. It’s a safe, free and reliable way to get a timely health assessment and advice without needing to travel

The service that comes to you.

If you can make a video call on your phone or computer, you have everything you need to access virtual care from anywhere in South Australia.

When to use virtual care

Is this right for me?

Virtual care is a good option when:

  • you’re unsure what kind of care you need and want prompt guidance
  • your GP isn’t available, and your concern can’t wait
  • you need after-hours advice for yourself or a child
  • it’s difficult to travel to a clinic or hospital
  • you live in a regional or remote area of South Australia.

What to expect

What happens in a virtual care appointment?

You will speak with a qualified doctor, nurse or midwife who will assess your symptoms, provide advice and recommend the next steps.

Some services can arrange prescriptions, referrals or follow-up care where appropriate. If your condition needs in-person assessment or treatment, you’ll be referred to the right service.

Why you can trust virtual care

Virtual care services in South Australia are staffed by qualified and registered health professionals, including nurses, doctors and midwives. They use the same clinical standards as face-to-face care and will let you know if you need to be seen in person.

1800MEDICARE

Not sure where to start?

Call 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) for free health advice – 24/7.

A registered nurse will assess your symptoms, provide advice and help connect you with the most appropriate care. Depending on your needs, this may include self-care advice, referral to another health service, or where appropriate, connection to a GP.

Access virtual care directly

Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service

Urgent virtual care for children and young people. Staffed by paediatric-trained clinicians who understand children’s health.

  • Hours: 7 days a week, 9:00am – 9:00pm
  • Cost: Free
  • Access: Register online

Virtual Women’s Assessment Service

Virtual assessment and advice for women experiencing pregnancy-related concerns or women’s health issues.

  • Hours: 7 days a week, 8:00am – 4:00pm
  • Cost: Free
  • Access: Register online

What you need

How do I get started?

If you can make a video call on your phone, tablet or computer, you have everything you need. A standard internet or mobile connection is fine for most consultations.

It also helps to have:

  • your Medicare card number
  • a list of medications you’re currently taking
  • any photos of symptoms (rashes, wounds, etc.) if relevant

A clinician will guide you through the rest.

Not the right fit?

If virtual care isn’t quite right for your situation, South Australia has other options that may help:

GP / Doctor

Your first point of care for most everyday health needs.

Emergency care

For life-threatening emergencies.

In a life-threatening emergency

If you or someone else is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or serious injury, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Emergency departments in South Australia are available to all South Australians, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Call Triple Zero (000)