Police are searching for a patient who failed to return from unescorted leave from the Thomas Embling Hospital in Fairfield on Friday.
Lee Bartel left the hospital on Friday and was believed to be headed to St Kilda before she failed to return at 5pm as part of an approved custodial order.
Police were notified of her disappearance after she failed to return by the nominated time.
At this stage ongoing enquiries by police have failed to find Bartel.
The 44-year-old woman is described as being Caucasian, 170cm tall, with a solid build and blonde hair.
She was last seen wearing heavy makeup, a black singlet dress, black boots and puffer jacket.
Bartel, who is believed to travel on public transport, is not considered to be a risk to others in the community.
Police are concerned for her welfare due to a medical condition which requires medication.
Investigators have released images of Bartel as she was seen leaving the hospital.
Anyone who sights Bartel is urged to call Triple Zero (000) or with information about her whereabouts please call Collingwood Police Station on 8413 1700.
