When to Seek Medical Care
A simple guide to what can wait, what needs a visit, and what needs help now.
Care now, at the nearest emergency facility Chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness or trouble speaking, fits, heavy bleeding, unconsciousness, fever in a baby under two months, severe abdominal pain in pregnancy.
Care within a day or two Fever lasting more than two days, painful urination, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, a wound that becomes red and hot, ear pain, a cough lasting more than two weeks.
Care at a routine visit Repeat prescriptions, blood pressure and sugar checks, immunisations, family planning, mild long-standing aches, general health questions.
Prepare for any visit Bring your MediLink Health ID, a list of your medicines, and the questions you most want answered.
Get medical help straight away for chest pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, seizures, confusion, a stiff neck with fever, a high fever in a baby, or if you feel your life is in danger.
Related guides
- Know the Warning Signs
Symptoms that mean you should not wait at home, and what to do first.
General health information — not a diagnosis or substitute for professional medical care.