A national campaign is rolling out to position 1800MEDICARE as a simple, reliable entry point to Australia’s health system—helping people find the right care, first time.
Led by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and supported by the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA), the initiative is aimed at increasing awareness across both the community and clinical workforce.
Available 24/7 via phone, web and app, the free service connects consumers with registered nurses who can provide advice, assess symptoms and guide them to the most appropriate care.
At a system level, 1800MEDICARE is designed to:
- Reduce pressure on emergency departments
- Improve patient flow and navigation
- Support health literacy and self-management
Depending on need, consumers may be:
- Supported with self-care advice
- Referred to a GP or pharmacy
- Directed to urgent care or emergency services
- Connected to after-hours GP telehealth (where eligible)
For providers, the goal is to help ensure patients access the right level of care earlier.
1800MEDICARE app
The 1800MEDICARE app acts as a digital front door, bringing key services together in one place. Users can:
- Check symptoms and access trusted health information
- Connect to nurse triage and telehealth services
- View and manage their My Health Record
- Access electronic prescriptions and Active Script Lists
- Find nearby health services
Strengthening the role of My Health Record
The campaign also highlights the value of My Health Record in supporting more connected care.
Together, 1800MEDICARE and My Health Record aim to support more informed conversations and better coordinated care at every touchpoint.
Greater consumer engagement with their record can help clinicians:
- Make more informed decisions with better access to history
- Reduce duplication of tests and investigations
- Maintain continuity of care across settings