New Free Virtual Health Service Launches in Sydney
Today, the Minns Labor Government has expanded a new free virtual healthcare service to all Sydney residents.
Residents from Western Sydney, South West Sydney, Nepean Blue Mountains, Central Coast and the Illawarra Shoalhaven local health districts will be able to access free and safe virtual care for non-life threatening conditions, right from the comfort of their own home.
It is expected to save 85,000 people from an unnecessary wait in an emergency department each year.
This virtual care service will provide care for urgent but non-life threatening illnesses or injuries including:
The service will be available between 8am and 10pm seven days a week for people aged 16 years and older.
You can access this service by phoning HealthDirect on 1800 022 222 where patients will first speak to a registered nurse who will assess your condition, and if appropriate, refer you to the virtual care service.
The service uses video conferencing technology to connect patients with a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, including doctors and nurses, where clinically appropriate.
Virtual care forms part of a broader range of measures to relieve pressure on the state’s busy EDs, including:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“Today, we are announcing that virtual care for non-life threatening conditions will now be available to all residents across Sydney.
“This virtual care service is a free, convenient and safe way to access care right from the comfort of home.
“People from right across Sydney will be able to avoid for a wait for a GP or in a hospital through this expanded virtual care service.
“It will relieve pressure on our busy emergency departments by creating more alternative pathways to care outside the hospital.”
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/Pages/20250305_03.aspx