If you or a family member is sick this Christmas, do you know your options?
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After Hours medical care is available and gives local residents greater access to GP care closer to home, ensuring patients are not unnecessarily attending local hospital emergency departments.
South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN) has commissioned After Hours health care services across the region, including the Southern Highlands service at 21 St Jude Street, Bowral (opposite Bowral Hospital).
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 Southern Highlands After Hours service will be closed on Christmas Day; open on Boxing Day from 10am to noon and 3pm to 5pm; open on Saturday 29 December from 3pm to 5pm; open on Sunday 30 December from 10am to noon and 3pm to 5pm; and open on New Year’s Day from 10am to noon and 3pm to 5pm.
“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,” Mr McDonald said.
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“We’re urging the community not to visit emergency departments after hours with illnesses or injuries which are more appropriately treated by a GP. Emergency departments should be kept for emergencies – patients with serious illnesses or injury which could lead to complications, even death.”
Patients can call 4861 6433 for all other after hours times.
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.
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