How to access telehealth without an internet connection

Do you need a telehealth consultation but are worried about your internet connection (or don’t have one where you’re headed)? Well, Australian telehealth providers don’t always require online bookings or video consults. In fact, there are plenty of well-established providers offering phone services. The only problem is choosing the right one and knowing where to go.

Getting free access to healthcare over the phone is possible via several government-funded services. While wait times may vary, this could be a good first step if you are unsure whether you need more urgent help or want to find out how to care for a minor injury or illness on the road or at home.

• Healthdirect: This free government-supported service provides a 24/7 hotline with registered nurses available to triage and give you health advice. Call 1800 022 222. The service may also help you find a GP and arrange a callback, if needed.
• 13SICK: Wait times can vary a bit, but dialling 13SICK connects you with urgent after-hours doctors. It’s the former home doctor service, which also still offers some house calls – but they are very limited.

There are plenty of private telehealth providers providing excellent care over the phone. However, a lot of them require you to book online, even though you may be able to get around this by calling their general customer service line. Hola Health, Medmate, and Teledoc are all examples of comprehensive service providers that conduct phone consultations but generally only promote booking over the phone. You can find a full list on MediCompare. Here are a couple of providers that rank well and will let you book over the phone.

• 24-7MedCare: This round-the-clock GP clinic service provider has GP telehealth and psychologist consults available over the phone. Costs start from $49, but the service also offers bulk billing and mental health sessions as part of a treatment plan. Bookings can be made by calling 139 247.
• Private Medical: Highly rated telehealth provider with GP consults from $69. Opening hours are from 8 am to 8 pm every day.  The provider also highlights assistance for travellers. Bookings via 135 001.

If you are living or travelling in a regional or rural area far away from the nearest hospital, it’s advisable to research the nearest GP or urgent care clinic that may also provide telehealth services over the phone and jotting down their number. They will be your first point of call for less urgent health concerns. If you are in a bind, Healthdirect (listed above) may be able to direct you to the right resources.

In emergencies only, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) provides 24/7 urgent medical assistance. It can be reached over the phone or via satellite phone. Below you’ll find the relevant numbers for each state. Please note that these numbers are to be used ONLY in an emergency or if you do not have access to hospital services in your local area.

• QLD: 1300 My RFDS (1300 69 7337)
• SA (Outback Areas):1800 RFDS SA (1800 733 772)
• WA: 1800 625 800
• WA Satellite Phone: 08 9417 6389
• NT (Central Australia): 000
• NT (Top End/Darwin): 000
• HF Radio: (4010kHz, 6890kHz or 8165kHz)
• Satellite Telephone: 08 8648 9555 or +61 1800 RFDS SA (+61 1800 733 772)
• NSW: 1800 DRS FLY (1800 377 359) or dial 000

In Australia, there are multiple ways to access a doctor over the phone. These include free medical information services, such as Healthdirect, which can help triage and find a doctor. Additionally, there are private telehealth providers offering bulk-billed or fully paid GP consultations, as well as local urgent care clinics or GPs offering telehealth consultations. Emergency services are also available over a standard phone or by satellite phone in an emergency.

While phone-based telehealth services are available, it is important to recognise their limitations. For minor ailments or injuries, having a phone call with a nurse or GP may be enough. But for urgent care needs, it is crucial to escalate when necessary. This could mean heading to your nearest urgent care or GP clinic in person for a face-to-face appointment and care. In emergencies, it may mean locating the nearest hospital or contacting 000 or the RFDS.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Please get in touch with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.