21 Jul 2025As Kiwis, we’re lucky to have access to a growing range of telehealth services, making healthcare more accessible wherever we are. But when you’re unwell and need help, not all online doctor services offer the same level of care. Emergency Consult isn’t just another online GP service – we’re emergency medicine experts with unique features that set us apart.
Here’s what makes Emergency Consult different:
Specialists in emergency and urgent care
While most online doctor services connect you with GPs for general health issues, Emergency Consult provides direct video consultations with Emergency Medicine Specialists. All of our doctors and nurses have extensive emergency department (ED) experience. Many of our doctors have reached the pinnacle of the emergency specialty and are Fellows of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (FACEMs).
Whether it’s a sudden illness, an injury while you’re away from home, or maybe you’re unsure if your situation is an emergency—our emergency consultants have the expertise to assess and treat or guide you appropriately.
Available 24/7 – even when other services aren’t
Many online GP services operate during business hours or with limited after-hours availability. Emergency Consult is open 24/7, 365 days a year, providing urgent care anytime, including weekends and public holidays, so you’re never left wondering where to turn when your regular GP is closed.
Our doctors can prescribe medications, such as antibiotics and pain relief, to treat your unexpected health crises. And, where necessary, can provide urgent access to a repeat prescription for your regular medication (excluding controlled drugs).
On-demand with no need to book
Accidents, injuries and illness don’t abide by a schedule and neither do we. Emergency Consult is an appointment-free telehealth service. Think of us like a virtual urgent care clinic—we’re always open and have specialist staff ready to help.
Your video call will usually be answered in less than 15 minutes. You’ll speak with an experienced triage nurse first, who will make sure we have all the pertinent details, then you’ll be transferred to an emergency doctor.
Seamless access from anywhere in New Zealand
Emergency Consult’s service is designed for situations where immediate advice is needed, no matter where you are. Whether you’re at home, travelling, or on holiday, you can connect with an emergency medicine doctor quickly, avoiding unnecessary trips to the ED unless absolutely needed.
Because we’re not GP’s we’re not associated with any regional service or physical clinics. It doesn’t matter if you’re local or from out of town, if you can get online, you can get access to us.
Ideal for episodic and urgent situations
Emergency Consult complements your usual GP, focusing on acute issues requiring timely assessment rather than routine or prolonged care. This includes:
• Sudden or severe illness
• Injuries that you suspect may require hospital attention
• Symptoms you’re worried about but unsure if you need to go to the ED
• Medical concerns needing attention when you can’t access your regular doctor
• Conditions that require treatment or access to prescribed medication quickly
Advanced triage and hospital connections
Because our doctors are Emergency Consultants, they can diagnose your condition accurately and may sometimes be able to arrange direct referrals into hospital care if it’s required, reducing your wait time in the ED.
Transparent pricing and subsidies
As part of New Zealand’s 24/7 online GP service initiative, Emergency Consult offers reduced fees for children, youth, and Community Services Card holders, ensuring urgent care is accessible and affordable for those who need it.
No enrolment required
You don’t need to change your GP or enrol in a practice to use Emergency Consult. We’re always here when you need us, supporting your usual healthcare provider and ensuring you receive expert advice when time is critical. And your consult notes can be sent to your usual GP for continuity of care.
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When you’re unwell or injured, the last thing you want is to navigate the health system or sit in an ED waiting room for hours if it isn’t necessary. Emergency Consult provides you with expert, timely care from emergency medicine specialists, anytime, anywhere in New Zealand.