In an emergency, always call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Ambulances are the safest way to be assessed, treated and transported to the right hospital for the care you need.
Triple zero (000) is a free call from any phone, mobile or phone box.
For less severe but still urgent situations, go to an Emergency Department.
There are seven public hospital Emergency Departments in metropolitan Adelaide and they are all available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Emergency Departments are located at:
- Royal Adelaide Hospital
- Lyell McEwin Hospital
- Flinders Medical Centre
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital
- Modbury Hospital
- Noarlunga Hospital
- Women’s and Children’s Hospital (children’s emergency services and peri-natal emergency services for women).
The entrance to the Emergency Department at the RAH is located on level 2.
On arrival at the ED, you will be assessed (triaged) in a ‘Quick Look’ area to ensure the most seriously ill or injured patients are prioritised for treatment. This means that patients with less urgent conditions may wait longer for treatment.
You will then be transferred to an ED cubicle and assessed by a senior clinician to determine what treatment you require.
Mental health emergency
For assistance in a mental health emergency, contact the mental health triage service – telephone 13 14 65, available 24 hours, seven days a week.
Not an emergency?
For minor illness or injury that is not an emergency, there are other treatment options that can be considered, such as visiting a General Practitioner (GP) or pharmacy.
To speak to a registered nurse, you may phone Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Going to the right place for your condition may mean being seen quicker and getting home sooner, ensuring emergency doctors and nurses are available for those who need them.
Many GPs and pharmacies are open after hours and on weekends.