The WA Virtual Emergency Department (WAVED) will give patients the option of being seen virtually in the comfort of their own home through a virtual consultation with a specialist emergency clinician, rather than waiting in an emergency department (ED). This partnership between the WA Health, Health Service Providers and St John Ambulance WA will provide patients with clinically appropriate alternative care options and help reduce visits to the ED.
WAVED is located at the St John Ambulance WA Belmont State Operations Centre and comprises a team of medical, nursing, and clerical staff who are working alongside St John staff.
WAVED was launched on 11 September 2023 as a proof of concept and will be implemented in a phased approach. Residents of aged care homes in the Perth metropolitan area are being prioritised for the first phase of WAVED. Over time, the service will be further expanded to enable direct referrals from aged care providers and GPs.
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