If you or a family member is sick when your regular GP’s practice is closed, do you know your options?
After hours medical care is available throughout South Western Sydney for non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses such as coughs, colds and fevers, minor cuts or burns, sporting injuries, migraines, stomach bugs and various infections.
The health care service gives local residents greater access to GP care closer to home on weekday evenings, weekends and public holidays, ensuring patients are not attending local hospital emergency departments unnecessarily.
South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN) has commissioned after hours health care services across the region, including the Macarthur area service at 3-17 Queen Street, Campbelltown.
SWSPHN chief executive officer Keith McDonald said the after hours health care service was for those who needed urgent care rather than emergency care.
“It’s natural to be anxious and unsure where to turn when you or a loved one needs medical care after your regular GP’s practice has closed for the night or the weekend,” he said.
“Our message is: there are options available besides the emergency room at your local hospital.
“The after hours service is convenient, accessible and fully bulk billed, and importantly provides you with continuity of care because a report from your appointment will be forwarded to your nominated GP.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“We’re urging the community not to visit emergency departments after hours with illnesses or injuries which are more appropriately treated by a GP,’’ Mr McDonald said.[/social_quote]
“Emergency departments should be kept for emergencies – patients with serious illnesses or injury which could lead to complications, even death.”
The Campbelltown After Hours service is open from 6pm to 10pm on weeknights; 2pm to 10pm on weekends; and 4pm to 10pm on public holidays. Call 0405 166 231.
Additional after hours health care services can be located through the Healthdirect app.
After hours, if you are sick, injured or need non-emergency medical care you should:
- Contact your regular GP to check if they are open or have after hours arrangements in place.
- Download the Healthdirect app and use the Find a health service section to check local practices are open near you. For after hours select general practice, then refine, and scroll to select open now and bulk billing or visit swsphn.com.au
- Call the GP Helpline on 1800 022 222 for medical advice and support.
- Or use one of the available Home GP Services through: Sydney Medical Service 1300 466 347, DoctorDoctor 13 26 60 or National Home Doctor Service 13 74 25. Areas covered vary. Fees may apply. Check when calling.
If your condition is life threatening, visit your local emergency department or call 000.
For more information on after hours care in South Western Sydney visit swsphn.com.au
