NOBODY likes having to wait to see a doctor, especially when you or a loved one is feeling unwell. However, a few smart steps can help you get the care you need, faster.
If you have an urgent but not life-threatening issue, consider using the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) to avoid longer wait times at a hospital emergency department. The VVED is a free, 24/7 online service that allows you to speak to a healthcare provider from the comfort of your own home.
Urgent Care Clinics are another option and offer walk-in or same-day appointments for minor injuries or illnesses, often with shorter wait times than hospitals.
If you do attend a hospital emergency department, it’s helpful to understand how patients are triaged and what wait times are associated with each category. This means that even if you arrive early, more serious cases will be prioritised. While the triage system below is used by all Victorian hospitals, actual wait times may vary depending on the current demand placed on the emergency department.
The Victorian Triage System
Category 1 (Resuscitation): Immediate care
Category 2 (Emergency): Seen within 10 minutes
Category 3 (Urgent): Seen within 30 minutes
Category 4 (Semi-urgent): Seen within 1 hour
Category 5 (Non-urgent): Seen within 2 hours
To avoid long waits, choose the right service for your needs and come prepared with your symptoms and any questions you may have.
