healthdirect Symptom Checker
The healthdirect Symptom Checker is an online tool that allows people to follow a simple self-guided triage process to check their symptoms and get advice on what to do next.
The Symptom Checker can be accessed via the healthdirect website and healthdirect app.
An important digital health tool
The Symptom Checker is designed to give people looking online for information about their health symptoms access to evidence-based advice. The tool helps people make informed decisions and take appropriate action.
The user-friendly design, plain language and optional explainers help users reach the end of the triage process and be directed to the most appropriate health care for their health issue.
The Symptom Checker is not a diagnostic tool and is not designed to replace a consultation with a health professional. The tool is intended to assist people seek the right care for their symptoms, including self-care when appropriate.
Symptom Checker functionality
Users start the Symptom Checker triage process by answering a few simple background questions, such as their age and sex, as well as providing some health information — such as pregnancy or smoker status — and any recent places of travel. They can then enter details of symptoms they’re experiencing, current medical conditions and any recent injuries or procedures.
Once the preliminary questions have been answered, users are guided through a dynamic interview based on symptoms and responses entered.
The tool provides advice on what action should be taken next, such as self-care consulting a General Practitioner (or other appropriate health professional), attending an emergency department or calling Triple Zero (000).
When the advice is to consult a health professional, the Symptom Checker integrates with the Service Finder which displays local health services and allows people to make online bookings.
Clinically robust
The Symptom Checker is underpinned by strict clinical governance and clinical decision-making technology.
The Symptom Checker’s inference engine uses probabilistic modelling, comparing thousands of symptoms and an extensive evidence-based medical knowledge base to provide recommendations appropriate to the user.
The medical knowledge base has been localised for Australia, to include symptoms of all Australian-relevant diseases. The tool is monitored through vigilant clinical governance processes.
Healthdirect Australia continuously evaluates Symptom Checker usage, conducts clinical reviews and user testing to refine and improve the tool.
Hosting the Symptom Checker on health websites
Health organisations can easily embed a button on their websites linking to the Healthdirect Symptom Checker, providing website visitors with a direct link to safe, appropriate, online health information and advice.