GP visits for minor complaints: emergency departments for emergencies

Western Australians are encouraged to visit their local GP or after-hours GP when faced with routine or minor medical complaints.

With emergency departments across the State experiencing higher than usual attendance rates due to the flu-season, Western Australians are asked to assess their health requirements and choose appropriate care.

Depending on the situation, appropriate care can include:

• bed rest at home
• pharmacy prescribed medication
• GP consultation (local or after-hours)
• healthdirect Australia consultation (for those who are unsure of the best care)
• emergency departments.

Health professionals are asked to reinforce this message and work with WA Health to create the best path of patient care possible for all sick and ill Western Australians.