Rockhampton Hospital is urging the community to think twice before coming to the Emergency Department for non-urgent conditions.
Dr Michael Kirk, Rockhampton’s Director of Medical Services, knows that winter is the busiest time of year with colds, flus and respiratory conditions rife in the community.
“Our dedicated Emergency teams deliver exceptional care every day to everyone who needs help, but sometimes there will be a wait for those who have less urgent conditions. People who are the sickest or most seriously injured will always get their life-saving care immediately.”
Dr Kirk knows it is a challenge to get a GP appointment, but these specialist doctors are best placed to treat chronic or less urgent conditions.
“I urge people to plan their GP visit when possible. If you start to feel unwell, please try make an appointment straight away. Keep on top of your prescriptions and allow enough time to book an appointment before your medication runs out.”
Dr Kirk said there are no-cost alternatives to the Emergency Department for less urgent conditions, including:
- 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84): 24 hours a day, a registered nurse can advise whether you should go to a GP, pharmacy, or Emergency Department.
- Medicare Urgent Care Clinic at Stockland: Every day 8am to 8pm caring for minor injuries and burns, rashes, urinary tract infections, insect and animal bites, and respiratory conditions.
- Queensland Virtual Emergency Care Service: Every day 8am to 10pm senior Emergency Department staff, operated out of Metro North Hospital and Health Service, deliver telehealth treatment to people needing non-life-threatening care. They are experienced in triaging, diagnosing and treating a multitude of emergency conditions and can refer, and prescribe medication via video call.
- Symptom checker: The online symptom checker can guide you to the right health care option.
- After hours medical help and advice
Dr Kirk thanked all of the Rockhampton Hospital team for their commitment to providing great care to Central Queenslanders every day.