Expression of interest: NT Virtual Emergency Care trial
The Royal Flying Doctor Service is seeking expressions of interest from eligible cattle stations to participate in its upcoming Virtual Emergency Care Trial set to commence in September 2026.
About the trial
Delivered in partnership with NT Cattlemen’s Association (NTCA), NT Health’s Medical Retrieval & Consultation Centre (MRaCC) and Remote Outreach Consultation Centre (ROCC) in Alice Springs, the trial will equip selected cattle stations with portable virtual health technology connecting patients directly with 24/7 clinicians.
Rather than relying on a fixed clinic, the trial will deploy portable ‘virtual care backpacks’ and fixed 'virtual care cabinet' solutions.
The telehealth technology combines video consultation, on-site diagnostic equipment and essential medications that can be used in the homestead or out in the field, allowing on-call doctors to assess critically ill patients, hundreds of kilometres away, in real time.
The portable diagnostic tools include an infrared thermometer, HD examination camera, blood pressure monitor, pulse oximeter, electrocardiogram (ECG) and glucometer, all capable of transmitting high-quality images and clinical data directly to the on-call doctor.
A total of eight stations will be selected to take part in this pilot program, designed to improve access to remote healthcare services.
Expression of interest submissions open: Friday 1 May 2026
Expression of interest submissions close: Friday 5 June 2026
Selection process: Applications will be assessed based on eligibility, readiness, and ability to support successful implementation of the trial. Successful applicants will be notified shortly after close of submissions with the trial to commence in September 2026.
For further enquiries, please contact: RFDS SA/NT Virtual Emergency Care Manager, Caz Mason – caroline.mason@flyingdoctor.net
To express your interest, please complete the form below.
