Department of Health

Patient care

The Victorian healthcare system focuses on providing patient-centered care that is timely, appropriate and effective.

Patient-centred care is responsive to individual differences, cultural diversity and the preferences of people receiving care. Patient-centred care is supported by information, systems and services that meet patient needs.

Urgent concern helpline

If you’re worried that your child is getting sicker in hospital or not improving as expected, the Urgent Concern Helpline is here to help you.

Ambulance and patient transport

Victoria's ambulance services respond to people who are seriously ill or severely injured.

Non-emergency patient transport

Non-emergency patient transport (NEPT) is for patients who need clinical monitoring during transport, but do not require a time-critical ambulance response.

Acute care

Victorian acute care includes admitted and non-admitted services such as critical care, surgical services, hospital in the home, specialist clinics, trauma and emergency services.

Cancer care

Cancer patients makes up a high proportion of healthcare delivered in Victoria – the state has identified the need for improved cancer services.

First aid services

Commercial first aid providers in Victoria, are licenced under the Non- Emergency Patient Transport and First Aid Services Act 2003.

Public hospitals and health centres: smoke-free and vape-free

Smoking and the use of e-cigarettes (vaping) is prohibited within four metres of the entrances to all public hospitals and registered community health centres.

Perinatal and reproductive services

Information about Victoria's maternal and newborn services, and about access to assisted reproductive treatment.

Older people in hospital

Older people in hospital provides information, tools and resources to minimise the risk of functional decline for older people in hospital. It is underpinned by a philosophy of person-centred practice.

Specialty diagnostics, therapeutics and programs

Specialty diagnostics, therapeutics and programs covers organ donation, Blood Matters, pharmaceuticals, health technology, genetic services and Nationally Funded Centres.

Specialist clinics

Outpatient clinics comprise specialist clinics, specialist cancer services and orthopaedic services including paediatric services and hip and knee services.

Rehabilitation and complex care

Rehabilitation and complex care are a group of subacute services that support Victorians to maximise their independence and minimise long-term health needs.

End of life care

High-quality end of life care relies on open communication, informed decision making and collaboration between healthcare providers, families and carers.

Virtual care (Telehealth)

Telehealth can be a cost-effective, real-time and convenient alternative to the more traditional face-to-face way of providing healthcare, professional advice and education.

Reviewed 10 April 2025

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