If your regular GP is closed and you need after hours medical care, a new service operating across South Western Sydney has you covered.
My Emergency Doctor is giving patients immediate, convenient access to emergency specialist doctors for diagnosis and treatment of urgent, non-emergency medical conditions.
South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN) has funded My Emergency Doctor to provide medical care after hours at no cost via phone or video to people who aren’t sure if they need to go to the hospital Emergency Department.
A consultation with My Emergency Doctor may be appropriate if you or your loved ones require urgent attention for medical conditions including: abdominal pain; fainting; headache/head injury/concussion; flu; fever; rashes, bites and stings; back pain; sore throat; diarrhoea and vomiting; acute injury; headache; urinary tract infections; allergic reactions; sports injuries; and work injuries.
Founder and medical director of My Emergency Doctor, Dr Justin Bowra, pictured, said My Emergency Doctor had worked in collaboration with GPs and Primary Health Networks nationally to complement primary care pathways since 2016.
“I am thrilled that our telemedicine service will now be assisting the diverse population of South Western Sydney with their medical needs in the after hours period when they cannot reach their regular GP,” said Dr Bowra, who has worked in Emergency Departments at both Liverpool and Bankstown hospitals.
SWSPHN chief executive officer, Dr Keith McDonald, said My Emergency Doctor would complement the existing care provided by the patient’s regular GP who should always be the first point of contact for those needing non-emergency medical 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.
“My Emergency Doctor is convenient, accessible and no appointment is needed. Importantly, the service provides you with continuity of care because with your consent, your nominated GP can be sent a summary of your consultation.”
In addition to being assessed and treated by experienced doctors, patients can access prescriptions, X-ray and pathology referrals and My Emergency Doctor will arrange emergency patient transport to hospital if required.
My Emergency Doctor can support consultations in multiple languages via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
To access the service, call the hotline on 1800 001 033 or download the ‘My Emergency Dr’ app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
