Tasmanians and visitors to the state seeking medical and pharmacy support over the holiday period can find out for free what help is available nearby.
People falling ill over the break are urged to ‘Save 000 for saving lives’.
Primary Health Tasmania’s Manager – After Hours Care, Ms Meghan Mann, said a free-call phone service was available 24 hours a day for medical advice, and an online directory provided information about after hours GP and pharmacy services available in local areas.
“Many general practices in Tasmania provide some level of after hours care and should be your first point of call when urgent non-emergency care is needed,” Ms Mann said.
“If you don’t have a regular GP, if they are not available, or if you’re away from home, you can call 1800 022 222 for free medical advice.”
“This takes you to the national healthdirect Australia telephone health advice service, where a registered nurse can provide information and advice. If needed, they can put you in touch with a Tasmanian GP through the local GP Assist service.”
Primary Health Tasmania has a website (www.tasafterhours.com) and mobile phone app aimed at helping people work out when, why and how to access after hours medical services.
The website features an online directory which helps people find general practice and pharmacy services open after hours, including on weekends and public holidays.
The website uses location detection technology providing a map of your current location showing general practice and pharmacy services available nearest to you. It can be easily accessed on your home computer, as well as a smart phone or tablet device for easy access when on the move.
Tasmanian Visitor Information Network Executive Officer Judy Moore said visitor centres across Tasmania find it reassuring that they can quickly access up-to-date information to respond to travellers’ queries about after hours medical and pharmacy information.
“The after hours website is an extremely important and invaluable tool for visitor centres and enables staff to quickly identify general practices and pharmacies for visitors and locals on holidays who may need to access these services,” she said.
“It is particularly important to be able to source this information in rural and regional areas where there may be limited options and varying opening hours, particularly on public holidays and at weekends.”
Primary Health Tasmania is working with a range of stakeholders to help improve ways to promote appropriate use of medical services around the clock and around the state.
People are reminded to only call for an ambulance if there is a medical emergency. People calling for an ambulance for routine ailments or minor injuries where other treatment options exist may cause delays in getting to someone whose life is at risk.
“Those suffering from less serious problems should book an appointment with their regular GP, go to an after hours clinic, visit a pharmacist or call an advice helpline,” Ms Mann said.
People are also reminded to pick up prescriptions and refill medicine cabinets before the festive period begins.
Jenny Denholm, Manager – Communications and Marketing
