Telstra Health – Strengthening GP services in remote regions

Most Australians would consider visiting a GP the first port of call for any medical enquiry; however, for those living in remote Australia, this can be a difficult task.

Telstra Health’s Virtual Doctor service can assist to address this inequity. This telehealth service connects patients with doctors over the phone or video, regardless of location.

Patients living in remote regions can simply call a doctor from the comfort of their own home – saving time and eliminating mobility constraints.

The service is scalable so providers can deploy it according to their fluctuating level of need – from an after-hours gap service up to 24/7.

Doctors are able to provide a range of services to patients – including general medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, prescriptions and medical certificates, where assessed as appropriate by a HealthNow doctor – all via the Virtual Doctor service.

A trial of the Virtual Doctor service in regional WA has been a resounding success. Since its inception, the use of our telehealth service has helped to reduce the number of emergency department visits for non-acute treatment and increased patient medication compliance levels.

User feedback suggests that it is easing the physical and psychological burdens associated with travelling long distances to see a GP, or going without care.

The Virtual Doctor service aids health professionals in providing their patients with the reassurance that someone is always around to help, regardless of their location and circumstances.

To learn more about Telstra Health’s Virtual Doctor service, check out the case study.