More than 36,000 patients have sought treatment at The Friendlies Emergency Department since it opened on 25 September 2018, with 9,183 patients using the service in the last 12 months.

Celebrating its fourth milestone, Friendly Society Private Hospital CEO, Simone Finch said patient numbers to the emergency department continue to show the community’s need for the service.

“Our focus is to build on the strong foundation of The Friendlies, ensuring that everyone who needs our services and care knows they belong and will be supported while being treated with world-class medical care. The Emergency Department is fundamental in supporting our community and ensuring their urgent health needs are attended to,” Simone said.

There have been 1,261 ambulance presentations to the ED in the last year. There is very limited ramping of ambulances, with patients being seen and processed quickly so the ambulances are freed up to get back to serve the community.

The service is available to everyone. Patients can either self-present or be brought to our Friendlies Emergency Department via ambulance – just advise the ambulance crew of your preference. The opening hours are 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, all year round. There is a fee to use the service, which is explained here.

The Friendlies Emergency Department treats a wide range of patients and conditions, ranging from fractures to acute injuries and heart attacks. Part of our focus is to continue our high level of service. Following a presentation to the ED, patients receive a follow-up call and discharge letters are forwarded to their nominated GP to help with ongoing care. The patient is also able to return within 7-days for the same complaint without incurring any additional out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, we offer no out-of-pocket charges for Workcover and DVA Gold Card patients and can assist approved Workcover patients with their accounts, medical certificates and back-to-work plans.

If you are a regular visitor to the Emergency Department you may see familiar faces, as some of our doctors are local Emergency Consultants who have regular shifts at the Emergency Department. These doctors are supported by the Nurse Unit Manager, Emergency trained nurses, our Practice Manager, and friendly administration staff.

We are Covid-19 safe, and ensure our patients and staff are protected by following strict procedures.

*photo: Anita Williams – ED Registered Nurse, Tania Paulsen – Practice Manager, Dr Emeka Nwufoh – Emergency Physician and Clinical Director, Terry Yahnke – ED Registered Nurse, Ang Conway – ED Registered Nurse, Kara Harbourne – ED Registered Nurse