What is a telehealth
What is a telehealth consultation?
There are currently two types of telehealth appointments.
A telehealth video consultation is a consultation between a patient and their GP (or practice nurse) using a smart phone, laptop or computer via a secure email link.
A telehealth phone consultation is a consultation between a patient and their GP (or practice nurse) using a mobile or land line.
Are telehealth appointments appropriate for all consultations?
Many consultations can be managed via telehealth. Examples are repeat prescriptions and referrals, and pathology request forms and care plans. Basically, anything that doesn’t require a physical examination. If unsure, please ask at reception.
Advantages of telehealth video consultations
· During COVID- reduce risk of transmission
Do I have to participate?
No.
You can attend a face-to-face consultation with your GP if you prefer. A telehealth video/telephone consultation will only happen if your clinicians consider it suitable and you are happy to participate in a telehealth video/telephone consultation.
Where are they provided?
You can participate in a telehealth video/telephone consultation from your home.
Who will arrange it?
You can book an appointment online or via phone with our reception staff. Your Dr may also book a follow up appointment for you with your consent.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
You can cancel online or by phoning us on 9386 3409.
How should I prepare?
You can help get the best from a telehealth telephone consultation by following these simple steps:
· Please make sure you have access to your preferred device approx. 15mins before your appointment time.
· you have access to a comfortable position for the appointment, where you can have privacy if using a shared space.
You can help get the best from a telehealth video consultation by following these simple steps:
· Please make sure you have access to your preferred device approx. 15mins before your appointment time.
· You have access to a comfortable position for the appointment.
· A secure email link will be emailed to you approximately 10-15mins prior to your appointment
· When you receive the link, click and wait for the Doctor to join you.
· Speak clearly so your voice can be picked up by the microphone
· look at the camera so you can achieve good eye contact with the GP
· if you have a question or need help during the telehealth video consultation, just ask.
What happens at the telehealth video/telephone consultation appointment?
At the start, everyone will introduce themselves You will be asked some identifying questions such as your name, address, and date of birth to make sure the right patient, and right health records are present. The billing will be explained (currently all telehealth provided at Melville Medical Group is bulk billed). The GP/Nurse will speak with you and ask you questions in the same way as they would at a face-to-face consultation.
Who will be present?
You, your GP /nurse.
As with a face-to-face appointment, your spouse, partner, family or friend may accompany you if you wish.
How private is a telehealth video/telephone consultation?
The same privacy and confidentiality requirements that apply to face-to-face consultations apply to telehealth video/telephone consultations.
What if I need to be examined?
The GP may suggest that a Face to Face appointment is required.
What if I have special needs?
If you have special needs such as an interpreter, please let our reception staff know at the time of booking.
Will the telehealth video consultation be recorded?
No. Our practice does not record telehealth video/or telephone consultations and we do not give patients permission to make their own recordings of a telehealth video consultation.
What if I feel I can’t continue?
Most patients feel a little nervous at the beginning of their first telehealth video consultation because it’s a new way of seeing a doctor. However, most patients soon feel very comfortable with this kind of consultation. It’s very unlikely you’ll feel unable to continue with a telehealth video consultation. If this does happen, you can leave.
How much will it cost?
During the COVID 19 Pandemic, we at MMG have decided to bulk bill all patient for these services at this time.
Am I eligible for a Medicare rebate?
During the COVID 19 Pandemic, we at MMG have decided to bulk bill all patient for these services at this time.
How can I provide feedback?
We are keen to get your feedback so we can continue to improve our video/telephone consultation services. Our reception staff will be able to provide you with a patient feedback form. We will ask for your permission to share your feedback anonymously with other healthcare professionals and our practice team. You can choose for your feedback to remain confidential.
