South Australia expands 24/7 nurse-led health line

The South Australian Government is expanding a free, 24/7 nurse-led health line to improve medical access across the state. The initiative includes a $5.6 million investment for the 2026-27 period, featuring a $2 million boost specifically aimed at increasing service accessibility.

Registered nurses provide health information, advice, and referrals via the 1800MEDICARE service. Callers can be directed to self-care, general practitioners, pharmacies, virtual care providers, or emergency departments depending on their symptoms. The service also facilitates connections to the State Government’s Virtual Care Service and telehealth consultations with Healthdirect GPs.

Acting Minister for Health and Wellbeing Joe Szakacs stated that providing alternative care options is intended to reduce unnecessary emergency department visits and decrease ambulance ramping times. The expansion seeks to redirect individuals with non-acute health issues to more appropriate care pathways, particularly in regional communities.