Since launching September 2023, the WA Virtual Emergency Department (WAVED) has been progressively expanded to give more patients the option of having a virtual consultation with a specialist emergency physician in the comfort of their own home.
Currently, WAVED accepts referrals for adult patients from St John WA (SJWA) and a small number of additional agreed referrers in the Perth metropolitan area. In partnership with SJWA, WAVED will expand into the Greater Bunbury area from late February 2025.
Eligible patients referred by SJWA (either before or after ambulance dispatch) will be assessed via a telehealth platform, providing earlier access to emergency specialist assessment. Where appropriate, care will be delivered in the community including referral to other appropriate services and supports. Transfer to a physical emergency department will still occur where this is likely to benefit the patient.
The WA Department of Health has advised that WAVED clinicians may make direct contact with referring GPs to discuss a patient’s care and involve the GP in decision-making. All relevant clinical information is documented in a discharge summary which is securely transmitted to the nominated GP and uploaded to the patient’s My Health Record.
Expansion of WAVED will continue throughout 2025, with an initial focus on developing a referral pathway from the healthdirect advice line and establishing a paediatric sub-service.
Find out more on the WA Department of Health website.