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Information for International Students

The University Health Service Doctors will help with most medical problems. If you need more tests or treatment the doctor may refer you to a specialist either at a public hospital clinic or in private practice. To see a specialist you must have a referral letter from your General Practitioner (GP) and make an appointment. Payment may be required for private specialists.

Emergencies

For medical emergencies eg. severe pain, difficulty breathing or severe injury, you can go to the nearest Emergency Department at the nearest public hospital. Emergency Departments are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The nearest public hospital to the University (Callaghan Campus) is the Mater Hospital, Waratah. The John Hunter Hospital is also close by at Rankin Park. Gosford Hospital is the closest public hospital for the Ourimbah campus students.

In an emergency you may call an ambulance on 000 to take you to hospital. This is covered by OSHC but only for genuine emergencies.

Sick Children

If your child is very unwell do not wait to see the GP. If you live in the Newcastle area it is best to take your seriously ill child as soon as possible to the John Hunter Hospital as this hospital specialises in paediatrics. If you are unsure about your child's health and wish to speak to a paediatric nurse you can ring the Kids Kare Help Line between 2.30 pm and 10:45 pm daily. Phone 4921 2800. A helpful website is www.kaleidoscope.org.au go to Parents for information on childhood illnesses which are available in other languages, including Arabic, Chinese and Vietnamese.