WA Virtual Emergency Department (WAVED)

The WA Virtual Emergency Department is an innovative service that gives eligible patients quick access to emergency-level care from home via a secure video call.

It is designed for conditions that need urgent attention but may not require a physical visit to a hospital.

When you might be referred to the virtual ED 

After calling 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) or Triple Zero (000) a nurse or a paramedic may refer you if you have: 

• moderate symptoms that need urgent assessment 
• a condition that can be safely evaluated via video 
• difficulty travelling to an emergency department 
• symptoms that require timely clinical review but not immediate hands-on treatment. 

If your condition is suitable for telehealth assessment, all you need is a device with video call capability and internet connection to speak with a senior emergency department doctor or clinical nurse about your treatment options.

What to expect in the virtual ED

• You’ll speak with an emergency doctor or clinical nurse via video.
• They can assess your symptoms, provide treatment advice, and arrange prescriptions or referrals if needed. 
• If your condition requires in-person care, they will direct you to the most appropriate service. 

WAVED operating hours

• WAVED via 1800MEDICARE: 8am to 10pm, 7 days
• WAVED via ambulance service: 8am to 8pm, 7 days
• WAVEDkids via 1800MEDICARE: 10:30am to 8pm, Monday to Friday

The virtual ED helps reduce unnecessary hospital visits while ensuring you receive safe, timely care.

Symptom checker

Not sure where you need to go?

Use the online symptom checker to get the recommended care options for your symptoms and help you decide on what to do next. 

This takes an average of 6 minutes to complete.