Where to find emergency departments
We have emergency departments at:
- Bamaga Hospital
- Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service
- Thursday Island Hospital
- Weipa Integrated Health Service
If you're outside of these areas, call triple zero (000).
You may be able to get some emergency care at your local Primary Health Care Centre. We recommend calling before leaving for your health facility if it's after hours.
When to go to an emergency department
In an emergency, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.
Go to a hospital emergency department if you have a serious injury or illness.
If you’re not sure whether it’s an emergency, you can:
- call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
- ask at a GP, health clinic, or pharmacy (chemist).
Read more about when to go to the emergency department on the Queensland Health website.
What to expect at an emergency department
At the emergency department, go straight to the reception counter.
A nurse will see you and work out how urgent your condition is. They’ll ask you about your health, any medication you’re taking, and other questions to help with your care.
We treat patients in order of priority. This means the sickest patients get seen first.
Costs
If you have a Medicare card, emergency medical treatment is free.
If you don't have a Medicare card, you might have to pay for treatment.
Read more about health costs and support.
Getting support
Ask a nurse if you need an interpreter, or if you'd like to work with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Liaison Officer.