Multilingual Telehealth Services in Australia

In our multicultural nation, with over 50% of residents either born overseas or to an overseas-born parent [1], telehealth can provide greater access to inclusive healthcare. If you’re looking to find multilingual telehealth providers or interpreting services, this guide will point you in the right direction. You can also find detailed breakdowns of each provider in MediCompare’s review section.

• Translating and Interpreting Service (TIA) [2]: This government-funded service provides interpreters for non-English speakers or those less confident in English. It also provides free document translation (up to ten per calendar year), which can help with referral letters and medical reports. Over 150 languages are covered. Contact 131 450 or book online. Note: You will likely need to schedule a telehealth appointment in advance.
• Health Translations [3]: This searchable online library of over 30,000 multilingual health resources is funded by the Victorian Government. It is entirely free and a great starting point for health and well-being information. You may find answers here regarding common conditions and general health advice that complements your telehealth appointment. It can help you understand your options and be better prepared.
• Healthdirect Video Call: A government-funded online platform that allows you to connect with your healthcare provider via a virtual telehealth consultation. This not only gives you remote access to a health care practitioner speaking your language, but the set-up information for patients is also available in 26 languages to help you understand how to use telehealth services.

While you could get an interpreter to assist, especially if you need help with specialised health services, several telehealth providers also offer language support. This is helpful when you need quick access and are booking the next available appointment.

• Doctors On Demand: This 24/7 telehealth provider offers doctor consultations within one hour. You can choose from 25 languages when booking, depending on availability.
• Ochre Anytime: After-hours telehealth provider, with language options clearly listed during the booking process. Open Monday to Friday from 6 pm to 8 am and on weekends and public holidays from 9 am to 8 am the following day.

If you are visiting Australia, you can also use international telehealth options. These give access to multilingual doctors from around the world.

• Bupa Global: 24/7 telehealth care for international travellers. Language services and emergency assistance are available through the Global Virtual Care service.
• Allianz Care: This private health insurance provider has multicultural teams for client care and multilingual support available to help you navigate health care concerns and options.

Australia’s national and state governments are actively championing inclusive telehealth services. This includes providing health-related resources, including fliers and brochures, to healthcare providers and other resources. There are also multiple research programs underway to establish how to meet multicultural and multilingual needs. The aim is to enhance the accessibility of comprehensive healthcare services to all Australians and visitors alike, regardless of their cultural background.

Finding a way to access multilingual healthcare resources in Australia is easy, but it does require some planning ahead of time. From researching online wellbeing and health libraries, booking in free interpreting and translation services, and using a free platform for telehealth calls with a multilingual doctor of your choice, to using one of the multilingual telehealth providers or private health insurers, you’ll be well looked after.

Surprisingly, most of the available services are available at no extra cost to you at all, meaning truly inclusive telehealth. If you speak a less common language, you may need to plan ahead or ask your community for leads to secure a fluent doctor.

This article serves informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional for guidance on health-related inquiries.

[1] https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/people-and-communities/snapshot-australia/latest-release
[2] https://www.tisnational.gov.au/
[3] https://www.healthtranslations.vic.gov.au/