We all know that kids don't follow a 9 to 5 schedule when it comes to their health! When your child needs medical advice or care after hours, it can be tricky to know where to turn. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a range of after-hours healthcare options, so you can make the best choice for your little one.
When You Need an Assessment but Not the Emergency Department 🚨If your child needs to be seen by a healthcare professional but it’s not a life-threatening emergency, here are some great alternatives to the ED:
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Health Direct (1800 022 222) ☎️
Call this 24/7 helpline for advice on health concerns. You’ll speak to a registered nurse who can guide you on the next steps. Their website also has a handy service finder to help you locate a doctor or pharmacy. -
Victorian Virtual Emergency Department 💻
Access emergency care without leaving your home! The Victorian Virtual ED provides video consultations, offering expert advice on whether you need to visit a hospital or if home treatment is enough. -
Cub Care 🏥
This pediatric-specific service operates after hours, offering in-clinic and telehealth consultations for children. Perfect for non-emergency situations that still need a doctor’s opinion. -
Nurse on Call (1300 60 60 24) 👩⚕️
Available 24/7, Nurse on Call gives immediate advice from experienced nurses, helping you determine what to do next.
For those times when you’d rather not leave home, telehealth and home visit services can be lifesavers.
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Doctors on Demand 💻 (Not bulk-billed)
Need a quick telehealth appointment? Doctors on Demand can arrange video consults for general advice or even prescriptions, though it’s not bulk-billed. -
Doctor Doctor 🚗 (Bulk-billed)
This home visiting service operates after hours, bulk-billed and available for various non-emergency health issues. If your child needs a doctor but you don’t want to head to a clinic, this is a fantastic option. -
13SICK (13 74 25) 🚑 (Australia-wide, bulk-billed)
Another great home visiting service, available across Australia and bulk-billed. -
Google 'Home Visiting Doctors' 🔍
If you’re unsure of local home visiting services in your area, a quick Google search will help you find the closest options available!
For even more detailed information on after-hours healthcare options, visit the Better Health Victoria website. They’ve got a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions about your child’s healthcare.
Read Our Advocation Guide Before Seeing a Doctor 🩺Every time we interact with the healthcare system, we’re advocating for our little one. Our FREE 42-page guide on advocacy is here to show you how to do just that. I’ve poured my knowledge, expertise, and experience into it to empower you to confidently speak up and be the voice your child needs when it matters most. Get your copy here.
Want to Feel More Confident About Managing Sickness at Home? 💪
When it comes to managing sickness in your little one, having the right knowledge can make all the difference. Our Surviving Sickness course equips parents with the tools to confidently handle common illnesses at home, recognise when professional help is needed, and stay calm under pressure.