Expanded UCC opening hours welcome addition to home and community care options
01 Jul 2025
The Department of Health has welcomed news that the Launceston Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) will begin operating extended operating hours from today (1 July 2025).
Residents living in the Launceston region who require care for urgent but non-life-threatening injuries or illness can now access the Launceston Medicare UCC from the earlier time of 9am until 8pm seven days a week.
The change in operating hours has been agreed between the operator of the Launceston Medicare UCC and the Australian Government and has been managed by the Department of Health.
Secretary for Health Dale Webster said the expanded operating hours further improves access to non-emergency care options in the north of the state and will help relieve pressure on the Launceston General Hospital during the busy winter season.
“We know many people who visit our emergency departments could receive timelier and better tailored care by accessing a more appropriate care option for their needs.
“By providing access to urgent, but non-emergency care from the earlier time of 9am every day the Launceston Medicare UCC will further provide the community with a genuine alternative to a busy ED, when they have difficulty getting a GP appointment, or when their GP is closed, such as on a weekend.”
Accessing care via a Medicare UCC is only one of a range of treatment options the Department of Health is promoting in Tasmania this winter.
“As a health system we want Tasmanians to access the right care, in the right place at the right time, which is why there are a range of treatment options available that can meet the differing needs of the community”, said Mr Webster.
“If you’re feeling unwell and not sure what to do, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse 24 hours per day 7 days per week.
“They can connect you with a range of healthcare services, including five Medicare UCCs across Tasmania, a community pharmacy or another community-based care option”.
This is particularly important at this time of year, Mr Webster said: “As expected in winter we are experiencing increased rates of influenza, COVID-19, RSV and other respiratory pathogens in the community. We are also seeing increased numbers of people with respiratory symptoms presenting to Emergency Departments across the state.”
“If you have a respiratory illness like flu, RSV or COVID-19, you may be able to receive treatment from your home by calling the Care@home service on 1800 973 363.”
Care@home provides around the clock care – particularly to Tasmanians experiencing respiratory illnesses – and this can be done virtually while the patient is in the comfort of their own home.
The Secretary reminded Tasmanians who required emergency care should continue to call Triple Zero (000) or go the nearest Emergency Department without hesitation.
“Our staff will be there if you need them, but in many cases you could be treated sooner without the need to go to hospital.”
Home and community-based treatment options in Tasmania include:
- Contacting healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or visiting healthdirect.gov.au
- Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Hobart, Bridgewater, Launceston and Devonport.
- Tasmanian virtual care service Care@home.
- Community pharmacies.
For more information about these treatment options visit: www.health.tas.gov.au/rightcare
