What to do if you get sick

If you have a serious illness, injury, or need urgent medical help, call 000 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Patients are treated based on the severity of their condition. Those with the most urgent needs are seen first. If your condition is less serious, you may have to wait longer for treatment.

If you have a valid Overseas Student or Overseas Visitor Health Cover policy with us and you have been admitted to hospital, contact us immediately so we can help you with your payment to the hospital (waiting periods and exclusions may apply).

If you are unsure if you should visit your local hospital’s emergency department, you can check your symptoms at healthdirect.gov.au  and select start symptom checker.  

For Allianz Care Australia OSHC and OVHC members where urgent treatment is required, you can access community-based Urgent Care facilities which are an alternative to traditional emergency department treatment for conditions including: sprains or broken bones; cuts requiring stitches; minor eye or ear problems; minor burns and scalds; and insect and animal bites.

Learn more about the Urgent Care Centres in your local area.

Primary OSHC policyholders also have access to 24/7 medical, safety and mental health support with Sonder. Register for the app with the email address you used to purchase your OSHC policy and get around the clock care the click of a button.  Learn more about Sonder.

For non-urgent medical care GPs are often the first point of contact for someone who feels sick or has a health concern. They treat a wide range of medical conditions and health issues.

To book an appointment with a GP, use our Find a Doctor tool. It allows you to find health professionals close by who will charge Allianz Care  directly for the amount covered under your policy. Simply enter your post code and choose the closest health provider. 

Depending on the treatment you require, they will prescribe you with medication or in some instances they will refer you to a specialist for additional treatment.  

Pharmacies are a convenient and accessible resource for minor health concerns and preventative care. You should visit a pharmacy when you need to:

• Fill a prescription: Get medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Access over-the-counter medications: Purchase remedies for minor ailments like colds, allergies, or pain relief without a prescription.
• Seek health advice: Consult pharmacists for expert advice on managing common health conditions, medication side effects, or drug interactions.

For serious or urgent health issues, it’s best to consult a doctor or visit a hospital.

In Australia, a specialist is a doctor with advanced training in a specific area of medicine, such as cardiology, dermatology, or orthopedics. To see a specialist, you typically need a referral from a GP. The GP assesses your condition and determines if specialist care is required, ensuring you see the right expert for your needs.

There are certain treatments, not covered under your policy. Please refer to the policy wording document for full benefit limits, terms and conditions.

Check out the Understanding your OSHC policy inclusions and out of pocket expenses page for more information.