Adjusting to life in a new country can be overwhelming, especially when you fall ill. What do you do when you get sick, and you do not have anyone here to look after you? If you’re an international student in Australia, understanding how to navigate the healthcare system is crucial for managing your health effectively. Here’s a guide on what to do and things to keep in mind when you get sick in Australia.
1. Assess Your Symptoms
When you first notice you’re feeling unwell, it’s important to assess the severity of your symptoms.
Mild Symptoms (Cold or Flu): If you have mild symptoms like a cold or flu, you might not need to visit a doctor immediately. For minor ailments, you can purchase vitamin supplements and over-the-counter medications at local chemists, such as Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite, Priceline or Chempro, etc. These stores offer a variety of products to help manage common issues like coughs, sore throats, and runny noses.
Vitamin supplements in Australia
Severe Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or persist, it’s important to seek professional medical advice. Conditions like high fever, persistent pain, difficulty breathing, or anything that seems out of the ordinary should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
2. Visiting a General Practitioner (GP)
If your symptoms are more serious or if you’re unsure about your condition, visiting a General Practitioner (GP) is your next step. GPs can provide a thorough examination, offer diagnoses, and prescribe medication if necessary.
Finding a GP: Many universities have on-campus health services or can recommend nearby GP clinics. You can also use online directories to find a GP close to your accommodation.
Let have a look at the GP clinics near to Brighton College’s campuses:
Brisbane campus: GP (General practice) in Brisbane City, QLD 4000 | healthdirect
Melbourne campus: GP (General practice) in Melbourne, VIC 3000 | healthdirect
Sydney campus: GP (General practice) in Sydney, NSW 2000 | healthdirect
Hobart campus: GP (General practice) in Hobart, TAS 7000 | healthdirect
3. Using Your OSHC or Medicare Insurance
As an international student, you’re required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or, if you’re eligible, Medicare. Here’s how to use these services:
OSHC: If you have OSHC, check your policy details to understand what’s covered. Most OSHC policies will cover GP visits, hospital stays, and some prescription medications. To use your OSHC, present your membership card (whether a physical card or the card on app) at the GP or pharmacy, and they will bill the insurance company directly or you may need to pay upfront and claim a reimbursement later.
Medicare: If you are eligible for Medicare (usually for international students with certain visa conditions), you can use your Medicare card to access free or subsidized healthcare services. Visit a Medicare office or check online for information on how to apply for a Medicare card if you haven’t done so already.
4. Seeking Medical Advice and Follow-Up
If you’re unsure about the severity of your condition or what steps to take, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local health service or speak to a nurse for advice. Follow-up with your GP if your symptoms don’t improve or if you need further treatment.
Read more about R U Ok Day in Australia if you are seeking for the mental health support!
5. Emergency Services
In case of a medical emergency, call 000 for urgent assistance. This number is used for all emergencies including medical, fire, and police services.
Final Tips
Keep a List of Local Healthcare Providers: Having a list of local GPs, pharmacies, and hospitals can be helpful.
Understand Your Coverage: Be clear about what your health insurance covers to avoid unexpected costs.
Stay Informed: Keep up to date with any health advisories or changes in healthcare services.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you manage your health effectively while studying in Australia. Taking care of yourself is crucial, so don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Stay healthy and enjoy your time studying down under!
