Busting Eight Common Telehealth Myths

Telehealth offers convenient and accessible online solutions for patients across Australia. But the face of telehealth is changing, together with legislative amendments, greater competition, and technological advancements. It’s time to examine a few persistent misconceptions.

While it is true that some healthcare needs require in-person care, telehealth is suitable for a range of issues. Whether you are looking for support with frequent follow-ups for chronic conditions, need timely access to counselling, or require a repeat script, referral or medical certificate, online doctors’ consults are a viable option.

The cost of telehealth depends largely on the provider, but there are plenty of affordable and bulk-billing providers available. It is worth checking specific costs before booking. For side-by-side comparisons, check out our MediCompare tools. Telehealth also eliminates travel and parking costs, as well as downtime travelling to and waiting at the doctor’s practice.

While telehealth appointments cannot replace physical assessments and the close rapport you may have with your primary doctor, they can complement and replace some more routine consultations. The quality of care is generally pretty high in the industry due to strict regulations and strong competition. Also, many GPs and other healthcare professionals have diversified by offering telehealth, which means you can often access the same doctors online as you would in person. Finally, access to your medical history via My Health Record and the use of diagnostic tools, such as blood sugar or blood pressure measurements, assist the consulting doctor in getting a more complete picture of your health conditions.

Perhaps due to well-known health initiatives such as the Royal Flying Doctors Service, telehealth is sometimes perceived as tailored to Australians in remote, regional, and rural areas. But the benefits of telehealth extend well beyond remote assistance. It addresses challenges beyond a lack of available healthcare, such as affordability, busy schedules, accessibility and more.

Modern-day telehealth providers often initiate follow-ups as part of their treatment or care plans. This more proactive approach helps promote greater continuity of care and timely interventions. For example, telehealth providers can help manage chronic conditions or prescribe mental health treatment plans.

The use of video consultations makes online doctors’ appointments more effective and personal than before. Some telehealth providers also allow patients to book with specific doctors, meaning greater continuity of care. As both doctors and patients become more used to using online services, it also becomes easier to manage communication during virtual consultations more effectively.

Many telehealth providers now offer specifically designed paediatric or elderly services. In fact, telehealth is often a good solution for parents of young children when illness arises after hours. Virtual consultations are particularly helpful for older patients with mobility issues and frequent follow-up needs.

While all digital solutions carry inherent privacy risks, telehealth platforms comply with the Australian Privacy Act and address these concerns effectively through robust security measures. Part of the onus also falls on the patient, both in keeping their computer and personal information safe and in ensuring privacy during their consultation.

The face of telehealth is changing, and providers are becoming more adaptable to the needs of different populations. While telehealth is not suited to all healthcare needs, it is helping make healthcare more accessible and affordable. There are many different telehealth providers with comprehensive or specialised services. Finding the right provider for your needs is key. For more information on a specific provider, visit MediCompare’s in-depth reviews.

This article is for informational purposes only and is no substitute for professional medical advice. Please choose your provider with care. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional regarding any health-related questions or concerns.