Telehealth

Get access to healthcare by phone or video call, wherever you are.

How it works

Book a telehealth consultation

Many doctors and medical centres now offer telehealth consultations. If you have a preferred healthcare provider, check if they’re set up for telehealth. If they’re not, you can find a provider that offers telehealth consultations at HealthDirect.

Before your consultation

Get the most out of your consultation by following these tips:

make sure your device is charged
check that you have a steady internet connection
make sure your microphone and camera (if necessary) is working
download any apps or set up any software your provider has requested of you
find a private, comfortable place to sit where you’ll be able to hear each other clearly
choose a place with good lighting so your healthcare provider can see you clearly (if necessary)

During your consultation

Your doctor will discuss next steps. This may include a follow-up telehealth consultation or a visit to see a healthcare provider in person.

Getting a prescription during a telehealth consultation

During your consultation, your doctor can send you an electronic prescription as an alternative to paper via SMS or email. You can then take it to your pharmacy or send it to them so they can home deliver your medicine.

If you have repeats, a new SMS or email will be sent to you when you get your medicine.

Learn more about electronic prescriptions.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is having a consultation with a healthcare provider by phone or video call.

Many GPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers now offer a telehealth consultation when a physical examination isn’t necessary or possible. It’s not intended to replace essential visits to the doctor, but rather be a convenient solution when you can’t see a doctor face-to-face.

If you have seen your regular doctor or medical centre in the last 12 months, they may be able to bulk-bill your telehealth consultation, but each healthcare provider may have different rules around bulk-billing.

Healthcare when you can’t leave home

If you’re unwell or need to self-isolate, you can still attend a consultation virtually. Telehealth consultations are not only convenient, but can also reduce the spread of illness.

Your healthcare providers are closer than ever

Occasionally, Australians living in rural and remote areas need to travel far to see their healthcare provider. A telehealth consultation can save time by enabling doctors to consult with their patient by phone or video call.

Two consultation options

Phone

Talk to your healthcare provider using your mobile or landline phone.

Video

Have a video call with your healthcare provider using a device that has a video platform (this may be specified by your healthcare provider).