Videos
1800MEDICARE is a free 24/7 phone and digital service staffed by registered nurses.
Now anyone in Australia can access health information and advice when they need it, wherever they are.
When you call 1800MEDICARE, a registered nurse will ask about your concerns and symptoms and guide you to the right type of care. That could be looking after yourself or a loved one at home or getting help from a health service in your area.
Depending on the time of day and your situation, they may offer you a phone or video call appointment with a GP.
The website and app also provide a simple way to access trusted health information tools, such as the symptom checker and medicines information. The app also has features like electronic prescriptions and active scripts. Together, these channels help you understand your options and connect with the most appropriate care.
1800MEDICARE can help when you or someone you care for is unwell or injured and you're not sure what to do next. You'll get expert advice to help you understand your options and find the right care. For free health advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call 1800 633 422.
For more information, visit medicare.gov.au/1800 or connect via the app.
This animation explains what 1800MEDICARE is, when you can call and the advice you can get.
Emma: I'm a registered nurse with over 10 years experience in the emergency departments. I currently work for 1800MEDICARE. I speak with patients every day about various health concerns that they may have, and need guidance on what to do next.
Nathaniel: 1800MEDICARE is a free service that you can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, you'll be speaking to a registered nurse like me, who can guide you through your symptoms and give you the best advice.
Emma: We often get calls around various different symptoms, including stomach pain, fever, or other injuries, such as sprains, burns, or cuts.
Nathaniel: Once I understand your situation, I'll then talk you through what needs to be done next, whether by managing your symptoms safely at home, or referring you to a GP, or even using the virtual GP platform.
Emma: Or an emergency department, going to an Urgent Care Clinic, or if needed, helping organise for an ambulance.
Nathaniel: When you speak to me, you can expect a calm, supportive conversation. I'll take my time to listen.
Emma: You won't be rushed, and you'll be treated with care and respect.
Nathaniel: We give you clear, trusted advice, so you can feel confident about what you need to do.
Emma: If you're ever unsure, you don't have to figure it out on your own. 1800MEDICARE is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, for you to speak to a registered nurse.
In this video, you’ll meet 1800MEDICARE registered nurses Emma and Nathaniel who share what happens when you call, and how they help people every day with a range of non-emergency health concerns.
Fact sheets
This Easy Read fact sheet provides information about the 1800MEDICARE service, including how to use 1800MEDICARE, the advice you can receive and the services you may be referred to.
This fact sheet provides information about 1800MEDICARE for international students in Australia.
This fact sheet provides information about 1800MEDICARE for health professionals.
Infographics
This infographic explains how the 1800MEDICARE phone line works, what happens when you call and how the service can help connect you to the right care.
Posters
This poster provides information about the 1800MEDICARE service.
This poster provides information about the 1800MEDICARE service.
This poster provides information about the 1800MEDICARE service.
Social media
This social media tile can be used to promote the 1800MEDICARE service.
This social media tile can be used to promote the 1800MEDICARE service.
This social media tile can be used to promote the 1800MEDICARE service.
Stakeholder kit
This information kit provides details and materials about the 1800MEDICARE service. It contains communication resources and sample social media posts.