Recently, the Australian Government announced plans for a new 1800MEDICARE service, an initiative designed to streamline access to healthcare advice and support. This service, when fully operational, is intended to complement existing healthcare resources by providing people with timely guidance from qualified health professionals.
What will 1800MEDICARE offer?
The 1800MEDICARE initiative aims to offer Australians a 24/7 health advice line and after hours GP telehealth service, backed by Medicare, where they can receive non-urgent health advice 24/7. It’s part of a broader strategy to reduce pressure on emergency departments and provide patients with easier access to reliable health information and support.
How will 1800MEDICARE work?
While the full details haven’t yet been released, what we know so far is that 1800MEDICARE will provide health advice to Australians from registered nurses, similar to how Healthdirect, 13 HEALTH and NURSE-ON-CALL currently operates in the various states throughout Australia.
The registered nurses on 1800MEDICARE will triage a patient’s enquiry, and if they need urgent GP care that can’t wait for their regular GP to be available, the triage nurses will connect the patient to a free telehealth session with a 1800MEDICARE GP via phone or video.
When does 1800MEDICARE launch?
1800MEDICARE is due to launch from 1 January 2026.
How is 1800MEDICARE different from Doctors on Demand?
- 1800MEDICARE aims to provide health advice from registered nurses, with Doctors on Demand you can speak direct to a doctor at a time that suits you
- Doctors are not readily available with 1800MEDICARE, however if the nurse deems that you need urgent care, you will be referred to an after hours telehealth doctor for a phone or video consultation
- With Doctors on Demand, you can join the queue to speak to the next available doctor, or book an appointment for a time that is convenient for you. From the information released to date, you will not be able to book an appointment with a doctor on 1800MEDICARE
- 1800MEDICARE will be a free service backed by Medicare, Doctors on Demand is unable to offer a Medicare rebate on consults
Why choose Doctors on Demand?
At Doctors on Demand, we’re committed to delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare around the clock, no waiting, no uncertainty. Our platform connects you with fully qualified Australian-registered doctors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Whether you need help with a minor illness, mental health support, a repeat prescription, or a medical certificate, we’re here to help, wherever you are.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Immediate access: Connect with a healthcare professional without delay
- Australian-registered practitioners: Get care from doctors and clinicians you can trust
- 24/7 availability: Day or night, weekday or weekend we’re always here
- Secure, confidential consultations: Your privacy and peace of mind are our priority
As more information regarding 1800MEDICARE is released, we will keep you up to date but in the meantime, our team of dedicated and experienced doctors are available to help with all your non-urgent medical enquiries.
Book an appointment or join the queue to speak with an experienced and Australian-registered doctor at a time that suits you.