WA Virtual Emergency Department
The WA Virtual Emergency Department (WAVED) allows patients to be assessed virtually (via telehealth) by an experienced clinician and connected with the care they need - at home, hospital or an alternative service - rather than waiting in an emergency department.
By providing clinically appropriate alternative care options, WAVED is helping to alleviate system pressures, including the use of ambulances and EDs.
General public
When a St John WA (SJWA) ambulance crew attends a triple zero (000) call-out, they may determine that the patient is suitable for a virtual (telehealth) assessment by an ED physician, rather than being immediately transported to a physical ED. When this occurs, the SJWA crew will initiate a referral to WAVED and assist the patient to participate in a virtual consultation using a SJWA device.
Depending on their individual healthcare needs, the patient may be provided with clinical advice, electronic prescription and/or referral to services that will support their care in the community. If the WAVED ED physician determines that the patient needs to attend a physical ED, this will be coordinated by the SJWA ambulance crew.
The WAVED service is available 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days per week for patients 16 years and over with lower urgency conditions.
Residential aged care
Staff from residential aged care homes requesting emergency care for residents via a triple zero (000) call were the first cohort to use WAVED for a virtual consultation where it was deemed clinically suitable.
Residents of aged care homes in the Perth metropolitan area were selected for the WAVED proof of concept because the research shows that frail older people are more likely to experience harm from a hospital visit.
Feedback
Feedback on your experience with WAVED (as a patient, family member, carer or aged care staff member) is welcomed to assist with continued service improvement.
Feedback can be provided through an online WAVED survey (external site).
Last reviewed: 22-04-2024