1. What are the operating hours?
The NurseFirst helpline is available daily including public holidays, from 8.00am to 11.00pm.
2. Is the helpline available on public holidays?
Yes, NurseFirst is available daily including public holidays, from 8.00am to 11.00pm.
3. What do I need to do as a caller?
Simply dial 6262 6262. A nurse will answer the call and ask you a series of questions, to assess the severity of your medical condition.
4. What will take place during the call?
A nurse will answer the call and ask you a series of questions to assess the severity of your medical condition. Depending on your symptoms, you may be advised to see a GP, visit a UCC or go to the hospital’s ED.
5. Will I be charged for calling the helpline?
The NurseFirst helpline is available daily at no charge (local call and data rates may apply).
6. I’m not sure where to bring my child for medical care. Can I call NurseFirst?
Yes! Our nurses are trained in emergency triage and will be able to advise patients of any age.
7. Can I call this number, if I do not live in the North?
Yes, you can still call this helpline for advice from our trained nurses.
8. Can I call on behalf of someone?
Yes, you can! Please ensure that you are able to provide sufficient details for our nurse to assess.
9. How is this service different from 1777 or 995? (existing FAQ)
1777 and 995 are national hotlines that activate ambulances based on the level of emergency. Residents experiencing urgent but not life-threatening conditions are strongly encouraged to call the NurseFirst helpline, to get quick advice on healthcare options according to their medical conditions.
10. What is Urgent Care Centre?
The Urgent Care Centre provides a one-stop service on consultation, diagnosis and treatment for conditions requiring urgent attention but are not life-threatening.
11. Is there an age requirement?
No, there is no age requirement.
12. Can we video call you?
NurseFirst is a voice-based helpline at the moment.
13. NurseFirst nurses are trained in emergency triage – what do you mean?
Emergency triage is the process of determining the severity of a patient’s condition, to ensure that patients get the appropriate medical attention.
14. Does NurseFirst provide home care services?
No, NurseFirst does not provide home care services. This helpline is manned by a team of nurses who will provide you with quick advice on where you seek medical help.
15. Are you able to advise on waiting times at the hospitals' Emergency Departments or Urgent Care Centres?
We are unable to advise on waiting times. Please visit the respective hospital websites for information on their waiting times.
16. Can I check or request for updates on a patient's medical treatment?
Please write to the relevant healthcare operators to enquire.
