Australia’s first ever virtual emergency department is marking a major milestone – providing more than half a million consultations to Victorians in need with free around-the-clock urgent care, in the comfort of their own home.
Starting as a pilot in October 2020, the VVED rolled out statewide in April 2022 and has provided clinical assessments, medical advice, treatment and referrals to Victorians of all ages, right across the state.
“With more than 500,000 video consultations, the VVED has become a service Victorians rely on – and it is all thanks to the hardworking doctors and nurses who support patients 24/7,” Ambulance Services Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
In the past year, the service has helped 83 per cent of patients who would have otherwise gone to the hospital avoid an unnecessary trip to the hospital when they needed urgent care.
With health services busier than ever, demand for the VVED is high with almost 22,000 calls in December 2024 alone – making it busier than any other emergency department.
The service is also helping alleviate pressure on paramedics, with around 79 per cent of patients referred by a paramedic receiving virtual care at home – avoiding paramedics driving them to hospital and freeing them up to return to the road and assist patients with life-threatening emergencies.
If faced with an emergency, Victorians should still call Triple Zero or present to their closest emergency department.
To access the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, please visit vved.org.au.
