Residents and visitors across South Eastern NSW are being encouraged to make the right call for the right health care through a new community awareness campaign from COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN.

The Make the right call for the right health care campaign aims to make it easier for people to understand their health care options and know where to turn for medical advice or treatment. It encourages people to choose the most appropriate service for their symptoms, situation and level of urgency.

COORDINARE’s CEO Prudence Buist said: "We've heard from community members that clear and consistent information is important when making decisions about their health care. This campaign has been designed to respond to that feedback and make it easier for people to understand the services available to them.

"When people are sick, injured or worried about a loved one, it can be difficult to know where to seek help. This campaign provides clear, practical information about the health care options across our region, giving people greater confidence about where to go for care. Whether it’s advice from a pharmacist, local doctor, Medicare Urgent Care Clinic or an emergency department, we want people to understand which services are best suited to their needs and where to turn when their usual doctor or general practice is unavailable, or on weekends and public holidays.

"By encouraging people to make informed decisions about their care and use the most appropriate service for their needs, the campaign helps ensure hospital emergency departments remain available for people experiencing serious or life-threatening illness or injury. If you're unsure where to start, 1800MEDICARE provides free health advice 24 hours a day and can connect people with the most appropriate care based on their symptoms," added Mrs Buist.

The campaign highlights a range of care options available across South Eastern NSW, including:

• local pharmacists for advice on mild symptoms, minor illnesses and medications
• your regular doctor or another general practice for ongoing health care and many illnesses or minor injuries
• Medicare Urgent Care Clinics for urgent but not life-threatening illness or injury
• 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) for free 24-hour health advice and support
• hospital emergency departments and Triple Zero (000) for serious or life-threatening conditions.

"This campaign is designed to support local communities as well as the many visitors who travel to South Eastern NSW each year. Knowing what health care options are available after hours can make it easier for people to find the care and support they need," said Mrs Buist.

"Emergency departments are essential for serious and life-threatening illness or injury, but there are many other health care options available for less urgent concerns. Understanding those options can help people access care sooner, closer to home, and get the support they need."

Community members are encouraged to visit maketherightcall.info to learn more about their health care options, find local services and understand where to go based on their situation.

The campaign will be promoted through digital advertising, social media, and printed materials across the region. Information will also be shared through local media, community settings and health services to help residents and visitors better understand their health care options and access the right care when they need it.

For free 24-hour health advice, call 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422).

To learn more, visit maketherightcall.info

Community, COORDINARE news, Media release,