Knowing the right treatment option for your needs this Easter

Tasmanians are encouraged to be aware of the right healthcare treatment options over Easter, when hospitals and health services experience an increase in demand across the State.

Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma, urged Tasmanians to familiarise themselves with the wide range of excellent treatment options that are available to ensure they receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

“Anyone requiring emergency medical care for a serious injury or illness should call triple zero (000) or make their way to the nearest emergency department – our skilled and dedicated staff will be there to care for you,’’ Minister Petrusma said.

“Importantly, there are also a range of other services available to those who need non-emergency care, including Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, after-hours GPs and pharmacies.

“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are ensuring Tasmanians can access the healthcare they need, when and where they need it.”

Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Roger Jaensch, said community pharmacies throughout Tasmania can provide advice for a range of conditions including coughs, colds, allergies and minor wound care.

“Participating pharmacies can provide assessments and management of some patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs), and are able to provide a resupply of many medications including the oral contraceptive pill for eligible Tasmanians, reducing the need to visit a GP,’’ Minister Jaensch said.

“We again encourage Tasmanians to stay up to date with their seasonal vaccinations as well, with many pharmacies throughout Tasmania offering this service.

“Tasmanians requiring repeat prescriptions should also check if they have enough to last throughout the Easter period, and if not, make sure they order them ahead of time.”

If an injury or illness is not an emergency or life-threatening, other options include:

• Medicare Urgent Care Clinics – there are five operating in Hobart, Bridgewater, Launceston and Devonport;
• Healthdirect – Tasmanians can go online or call Healthdirect (1800 022 222) to speak to a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week;
• Pharmacies – pharmacists can provide advice and treatment for a range of minor illnesses and ailments, such as coughs, colds, cuts and grazes, as well as provide medical certificates;
• GPs – some GPs offer extended opening hours in the evenings and on weekends;
• Care@home provides remote care and support in the home for vulnerable patients with respiratory illnesses; and
• The Access Mental Health Helpline – 1300 332 388 offers immediate counselling and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For more information about non-emergency care options available in Tasmania, visit www.health.tas.gov.au/rightcare