WA’s virtual emergency department just got more accessible.
Western Australia’s state government has expanded the state’s virtual emergency department (WAVED) thanks to a partnership with Healthdirect Australia.
Eligible adults calling the telehealth service can now be referred to WAVED for expert clinical assessment and support, without needing to attend an emergency department.
If a patient’s emergency is deemed suitable to be assessed and treated at home, Healthdirect will connect that patient to a senior emergency doctor via telehealth.
The newly expanded service will also support regional communities, where access to emergency care can require greater travel times.
WAVED began in September 2023 and since then, according to the state government, 72% of referrals have been safely assessed in their own home, “significantly reducing” presentations in hospital EDs.
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“The results of the WAVED program to date have been fantastic,” said WA health minister Meredith Hammat.
“Of the 5000 people referred to the service, more than 3500 patients were cared for outside of a hospital ED.
“Patients who need to visit an ED will still be urged to visit one, but these results show that most cases can be treated safely at home, be it on a station in the Pilbara, or an apartment in Perth.
“As we approach winter, I urge Western Australians to utilise the many services and initiatives we now have at our disposal to keep us healthy, happy and out of hospital.”
Referrals to WAVED can be made between 8am and 10pm.
“This expansion forms part of the state government’s winter preparedness plan, ensuring more people can get timely, safe care in the community while keeping emergency departments available for those who need them most,” said WA premier Roger Cook.