Warning after visits to EDs plummet
Emergency hospital presentations have fallen by 25%, prompting a call for patients to keep up with their GP appointments
Patients have been urged to see their GPs if needed, with cancer screenings down as Victorians steer clear of hospital EDs over COVID-19 fears.
Victoria’s ED presentations declined by 25% in August compared to the same time last year, authorities confirmed on Friday.
State Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said it was clear people were deferring treatment for more serious diseases.
“This is concerning because deferred care can lead to worse health outcomes and longer hospitalisation stays. It can lead to tragedy,” Ms Mikakos said.
