Once confined to remote areas, telehealth appointments have gained widespread popularity in recent years. Recognising the limitations of traditional in-person doctor visits, telehealth has emerged as a convenient and accessible alternative for medical consultations. This transformation in healthcare delivery has been fuelled by advancements in technology and a growing need for change. According to digitalhealth.gov.au, between 13 March 2020 and 31 July 2022, 118.2 million telehealth services have been delivered to 18 million patients, and more than 95,000 practitioners have now used telehealth services.
What is a telehealth appointment?
Think of a telehealth appointment as a blend between an online doctor and an on-call physician. It was created to solve the common problem of needing medical attention but facing barriers like limited resources or fully booked doctors. The healthcare industry realised that not all appointments require in-person visits, and telecommunication works well for cases without the need for physical intervention. Telehealth appointments don’t aim to replace conventional medical practices. Instead, they aim to make the process smoother for many people and reduce strain on the medical system.
How does a telehealth appointment work?
Think of a telehealth appointment as a regular one, but instead of going to the doctor’s office, you connect with them over the phone or online. This setup is effective for general consultations and appointments. Normally, you’ll arrange a time with the doctor and have a conversation using your phone, computer, or tablet. Your healthcare provider will provide instructions on how to access the telehealth appointment when you schedule it.
It’s worth noting that as long as you’re using a trustworthy service, the same rules for privacy and confidentiality that govern in-person visits also apply to telehealth appointments.
How to prepare for your first telehealth appointment
Here’s what to expect from your first telehealth appointment with your web doctor:
Your device:
Before your telehealth session, you’ll receive clear instructions on how to connect via call or video. Even if you’re new to this, don’t worry. A professional will walk you through each step you need to follow before and during the appointment. All you’ll need is a device like a mobile phone, tablet, or computer equipped with a camera and internet access.
The right environment:
It’s important to find a quiet space where you can comfortably talk during the session. A peaceful setting ensures effective communication between you and the doctor. While it’s not always in your control, try your best to minimise distractions. If you have energetic kids around, don’t stress too much as there’s sometimes not much we can do about our environment. When speaking with the doctor, remember to enunciate clearly, and look directly at the camera to establish good eye contact. The goal is to make this interaction feel as natural as an in-person conversation.
Have your information ready:
Keep your identification handy. Usually, you’ll only need to provide basic details like your name, birthdate, and address to the online doctor. However, having additional information readily available might be helpful if it’s requested during the session.
Prepare your questions:
It’s a good idea to jot down a list of questions you want to ask the doctor during the telehealth appointment. By having these questions ready, you can make the most of your session and avoid needing another appointment just to cover any missed inquiries. This is an important consideration for both in-person and online appointments.
What are the benefits of an online doctor?
Having the convenience of reaching a doctor without the need to travel is a major advantage of telehealth appointments. This is especially beneficial for individuals facing challenges in reaching a doctor’s office, particularly those with restricted mobility or lack of transportation. Being able to communicate with a doctor from the ease of their own home proves to be quite helpful.
Another advantageous aspect of doctor on demand availability through telehealth is for those who require medical attention outside of regular office hours. Many telehealth appointments can be scheduled during times that are not typically within the usual working hours. Through a telehealth appointment, you can arrange a consultation, obtain a script, or even request a medical certificate as needed.
Can kids use a telehealth appointment?
Telehealth appointments offer advantages for both adults and children alike. Regardless of age, there’s potential for benefit. When it comes to children, the approach might differ based on their age. For younger children, it’s likely that a parent or guardian would need to actively participate in the appointment. On the other hand, for adolescents, the child might directly engage with the doctor, with or without a parent present, depending on the situation and preference. In cases where a child is too young to interact directly, the appointment might naturally involve discussions between the parent or guardian and the doctor, ensuring that the child’s needs are effectively addressed. This flexibility in telehealth ensures that appropriate care is extended to all age groups.
Why choose 13 Doctor?
- Trust 13 DOCTOR for secure online access to experienced, compassionate Australian doctors who listen. We bridge gaps for rural and remote areas, providing accessible healthcare. Wherever you are in Australia, book a telehealth consultation with our doctors for improved health outcomes.
- Consult from home with our real-time video calls, ensuring privacy and comfort. Parents, elderly individuals, and rural families gain peace of mind with instant access to registered Australian doctors.
- A fast response is our priority. We promptly connect you with a doctor after booking confirmation via email and SMS. Our highly trained doctors are registered with AHPRA, meeting Australian standards.
- Receive medical certificates and scripts via email. Scripts are deliverable through the Tonic app. We’re available day and night, 7 days a week, meeting your anytime healthcare needs.
- Video consults are privately billed, starting from $69, as they aren’t covered by Medicare. Trust 13 DOCTOR for dependable, affordable care.
Online telehealth services like 13 Doctor can assist in navigating symptoms and provide access to a medical professional from the comfort of your own home. With appointments available seven days a week, making a conscious effort to stay on top of your health has never been easier. Contact us today.