What is considered a medical emergency

According to the International Federation for Emergency Medicine:

"Emergency medical treatment is provided where it is necessary because a person's life or health is in serious danger as a result of disease, injury or ill health."

ER24, Remedi's Designated Service Provider (DSP) for emergencies, has put together a helpful comparison of emergencies versus non-emergencies. Understanding the difference can help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses or ensure that you understand why your casualty visit is funded from your out-of-hospital benefits.

Emergency	Not an emergency: Consult your pharmacist or GP
When a person has or is reasonably believed to have suffered an acute injury or illness requiring medical attention or medical transportation by ambulance A doctor, registered nurse or paramedic has requested the urgent transportation of a patient by ambulance Acute life-threatening scenario	The only reason for using an ambulance is because transportation is available. Patient's life or usual activities would not be immediately threatened by referral to an alternative care facility for treatment later. Non-urgent health need outside of usual office hours Alternative transport or home remedy available
Persistent shortness of breath, wheezing or ongoing chest pain that worsens on breathing. Wheezing and difficulty breathing associated with asthma (with no response to usual medications)	Coughs Colds and flu Bronchitis Earache Sore throat (with or without fever) General weakness
Acute or persistent severe chest pain, especially if it radiates to your arm or jaw and is accompanied by sweating, vomiting or shortness of breath.	Ongoing, dull, nagging chest discomfort
Sudden, severe onset abdominal pain - the kind that makes it impossible to walk or wakes you up in agony	Abdominal pain caused by menstruation, constipation or other minor abdominal complaints
Difficulty speaking Confusion or altered mental state Weakness or paralysis Sudden loss of balance, especially with a history of high blood pressure, or in the elderly Sudden loss of vision Seizures Unconsciousness Stroke	Fainting Dizziness Headaches in an otherwise healthy person
Fever: Higher than 40°C Does not respond to paracetamol Associated with all-over body rash Children under two months with fever higher than 38.5°C	Fever: Lower than 38.5°C Responds to use of paracetamol No rash
Ongoing, persistent diarrhoea and vomiting with dehydration (usually more than eight episodes a day)	Diarrhoea and vomiting, still able to walk around
Trauma: Deep cuts that require stitches, especially on the face Bleeding that won't stop Large open wounds Broken bones or dislocated joints Head injuries with loss of consciousness Eye injuries	Trauma: Common sprains and strains Superficial cuts Bleeding stopped with pressure
Severe testicular discomfort	Painful urination Blood in the urine
Burns: Large surface area Burns to the face or a large part of the hand Where the burn encircles the limb Electrical burns	Burns: Minor burns and scalding Small surface area
Poisoning - accidental or intentional
Back pain after trauma (such as falling), or after back surgery performed within the last three months	Back pain after heavy lifting, generalised back spasm
Pregnancy complications: Before 37 weeks are completed, emergency determined Rupture of membranes (waters broken) Excessive bleeding during pregnancy Contractions less than five minutes apart Complication in current or previous pregnancies Pregnancy-induced hypertension Crowning of baby's head	Normal pregnancy/labour reached after 37 weeks. Contact your obstetrician or midwife.
Major allergic reaction: Breathing difficulties Swelling of lips, tongue or throat Dizziness or fainting Rash and itching over entire body	Major allergic reaction: Watery eyes Runny nose Minor rash and itching

Understanding the difference between an emergency and a non-emergency is crucial. It ensures you are properly covered and helps you avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses. By knowing your benefits and recognising the signs of a true emergency, you can make informed decisions and get the appropriate care when you need it most.

Sources
ER24. When to call for an ambulance. Accessed 10 April 2025