Canberra Health Services (CHS) has released an updated version of its app, giving Canberrans clearer information about wait times and where to seek treatment.

The former ACT Health has been renamed Canberra Health Services. It now shows wait times for all Walk-in Centres, public emergency departments, and the GP-led Woden Medicare Urgent Care Clinic. Users can see what conditions each service can and cannot treat, as well as the expected wait for care.

CHS has also stopped publishing average treatment times for emergency departments and Walk-in Centres, saying these vary depending on each patient’s needs.

Instead, the app, Canberra Health Services website, and digital screens at Canberra Hospital and North Canberra Hospital will only show waiting times.

CHS said the change brought the ACT into line with other states and territories.

The service has also changed the wording used to explain how waiting times are calculated.

The app also includes locations and directions to the nearest Walk-in Centre or emergency department, and information of before, during, and after a stay in hospital.

Patients with critical or urgent conditions will continue to be seen first in emergency departments, regardless of the displayed wait time. Patients at Walk-in Centres are seen in order of arrival.

Health minister Dr Marisa Paterson encouraged Canberrans to download the updated app.

“The app may have a fresh new look, but it continues to deliver the vital information people need to access and navigate public healthcare services in the ACT,” Dr Paterson said.

“It’s an important resource that helps Canberrans identify the best place to go when they need timely healthcare. These enhancements improve the user experience and make it simpler to connect with Canberra Health Services.”

The Canberra Health Services app is free through the Apple and Google app stores and the CHS website.