Major change for families in one state

All households across NSW are now able to access virtual urgent care consults for sick children, in a bid to reduce pressure on hospital emergency rooms.

The virtualKIDS Urgent Care Service was fully expanded to all local health districts as of January 19, with more than 500 families expected to benefit every month.

Previously, it was only available in South Eastern Sydney, Western Sydney and Hunter New England local health districts.

To access the all-hours service, concerned families can call HealthDirect on 1800 022 222, before they are referred to an audiovisual consult with a nurse, which they can complete on a mobile or computer. The consults are available for children up to 16 years of age, and free for Medicare card holders.

While patients may be directed to the emergency room if needed, two out of three sick children are able to receive treatment through alternate methods.

The sick child could also be directed to a consult with a virtualKIDS expert pediatrician, or advised to present to their local GP or urgent care centre.

Nurses are also able to provide prescriptions for medications like Children’s Panadol.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the expanded services would allow families to access care faster, and avoid unnecessary trips to hospital.

“Parents just want their children to receive the care they need and deserve in a timely manner,” he said.

“We know we can do better than keeping kids and parents waiting around for extended periods of time in hospitals.

“My priority as Health Minister is to embrace new ways to improve faster access to quality care and treatment for our kids.”