If you have tested positive to COVID-19, you may be cared for in Cairns Hospital’s Virtual Ward.
If you have tested positive to COVID-19, you may be cared for in Cairns Hospital’s Virtual Ward.
A virtual ward is a model-of-care used worldwide to provide care for COVID-19 positive patients, via phone calls and remote monitoring.
The CHHHS COVID-19 Virtual ward operates Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm, and services the entire CHHHS region.
Staffed by a dedicated team of clinical and administrative staff, the Virtual Ward provides hospital-level care remotely to those in isolation, helping to decrease demand on the health service.
If you have been admitted to the virtual ward for care and isolation at home – either by a doctor, or recommendation from Queensland Health – you have been assessed as being at-risk of serious illness from COVID-19, but not to the point you require immediate hospitalisation.
Referral
If you’ve tested positive to COVID-19 on a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) and would like advice or referral to the Virtual Ward (you will be risk assessed and referred if clinically indicated), phone the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. Alternatively, you can use the HealthDirect Australia COVID-19 Symptom Checker to complete a self-assessment and receive advice based on your risk-factors.
Important:
If you need immediate medical attention, call Triple Zero (000) for the Queensland Ambulance Service, and please notify them that you are COVID-19 positive in home isolation.
If you have not been admitted to the Virtual Ward and are concerned about any changes or worsening of symptoms at home, phone the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080, or arrange a telehealth appointment with a GP or health provider. Alternatively, you can use the HealthDirect Australia COVID-19 Symptom Checker to complete a self-assessment and receive advice based on your risk-factors.
If you need further information on where to get help, check out Where to get help - coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Queensland Government's Health and wellbeing website.