The 3-Step Process: What to Expect

When you dial 1300 60 60 24, you are connected to a registered nurse. Here is how the call typically unfolds:

Step 1: The Initial Intake

A nurse will answer and collect basic details first.

• What they ask: Your name, age, location (suburb), and a contact number.
• Why: They need to know where you are in case they need to dispatch an ambulance or find the nearest open pharmacy for you.

Step 2: Clinical Triage (The Questions)

The nurse will ask a series of specific, evidence-based questions to assess your condition.

• Common questions: “Do you have a fever?”, “Is there any chest pain?”, “Are you breathing normally?”, “How long have you had these symptoms?”
• Pro-Tip: Be as honest and detailed as possible. In 2026, they use advanced clinical software to match your symptoms to the best possible care path.

Step 3: The Recommendation

At the end of the call, the nurse will give you a clear “disposition” or plan of action:

• Self-Care: “You can manage this at home with rest and fluids.”
• See a GP: “You should book an appointment with your local doctor within the next 24 hours.”
• Urgent Care: “You should visit a Priority Primary Care Centre or a Virtual ED tonight.”
• Emergency: If your symptoms are life-threatening, the nurse can transfer your call directly to Triple Zero (000).

Tips for Students

The “Free” Factor

NURSE-ON-CALL is 100% free for health advice. However, the call itself costs the same as a local call. If you are calling from a mobile, check your plan, but most 2026 mobile plans include unlimited local calls.

Language Services

If English isn’t your first language, don’t worry. You can ask the nurse for an interpreter. They can connect a translator to the call in minutes (usually via the TIS National service) to ensure you understand the medical advice perfectly.

NURSE-ON-CALL vs. VVED

In 2026, many people confuse this service with the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED).

• NURSE-ON-CALL: Is audio only and best for “Should I be worried?” questions.
• VVED: Is a video call with emergency doctors and is best for “I definitely have a problem and need a doctor to see it” situations.