What you should tell us

We need to know a few things about you to keep you safe and comfortable while you're in our care. Here's what to tell us, and when.

I have allergies

Tell staff about any allergies you have (for example, to antibiotics, other medications, or food) as early as possible, ideally before you're admitted.

If you have an allergy, we'll:

• give you coloured wrist and ankle bands to wear
• record an alert in your medical record

I need an interpreter

Interpreters can help you at any time during your stay or at clinic appointments. They can provide help in person or over the phone for a Telehealth appointment.

• If you think you'll need an interpreter, organise one before your appointment or admission where possible. Your referring doctor can also include this information in your referral form.
• If you're already in hospital and finding it hard to understand what staff are telling you, ask them to arrange one for you.

See Interpreters and cultural support for language-specific information.

I need cultural support

Let us know on admission if you have any specific cultural requirements.

We can provide support for:

• People with disability
• Faith or religion, including specific dietary requirements (see Spiritual Care)
• LGBTIQA+ people
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) peoples — see the First Nations Health Unit
• Culturally and linguistically diverse people (see Interpreters and cultural support)

See Supporting you for the full range of support available.

My contact people

When you're admitted to hospital, you'll be asked to nominate one or two people to play a key role in your care.

With your permission, we can keep them – and only them – updated on your condition and progress.

Enquiries about your health

Family and friends can call the hospital to ask after you but we can only give general information over the phone.