In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

When to go to an emergency department

Go to an emergency department if you have a life threatening injury or illness such as:

  • central or crushing chest pain
  • severe difficulty breathing or turning blue
  • large burns
  • serious accidents or trauma
  • severe pain or bleeding
  • sudden numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg
  • altered level of consciousness.
Find your nearest hospital

  • Virtual Emergency Care Service

    Use the symptom checker to access the Virtual Emergency Care Service. It provides Queensland residents and visitors who live, are visiting, or receive treatment in Queensland with access to specialist emergency care services, by video conferencing or telephone.

  • Open Hospitals

    See key information about 25 major public emergency departments and 7 minor injury and illness clinics at Satellite Health Centres. This information includes the number of permanent treatment spaces, how many patients are waiting and median wait times.

Health care advice available 24/7

Finding the right care for you based on your symptoms

Online symptom checker

Start by using the healthdirect online symptom checker, you'll be asked to list your symptoms. You will then be guided to the best care for you.

Symptom checker

13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)

When you call 13 HEALTH, you'll talk to a registered nurse. They'll assess your symptoms and help you get the care you need.

Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)

Smiling female nurse wearing a headset in a call center office.

Find mental health support

When you’re looking for mental health support for yourself, someone you care about, or are just trying to improve your wellbeing.

Crisis and support helplines are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Call 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) if you are concerned about not-urgent problems that may be signs of more severe mental illness. Call Triple Zero (000) for immediate help.

Last updated: 23 September 2025