Even though it has been benefiting Australians for many years now, people can still scratch their heads when hearing the word ‘telehealth’. What exactly is a telehealth service? What services do they offer apart from getting a medical certificate online? Is it the future of healthcare? And what exactly is the benefit of using an online telehealth platform such as Prime Medic?
Technology is constantly improving and changing our lives – and the Australian healthcare sector is no exception. By utilising the latest technologies regarding audio and video conferencing, telehealth providers enable all Australians to access teams of qualified online doctors whenever they need, no matter their location.
All they need to do is create an account with an online doctor service such as Prime Medic, answer a few simple and basic questions regarding their medical history and the reason for needing to speak with a doctor. Once this quick process is complete, patients can then book an appointment with their preferred online doctor for a time that is convenient for them.
To use this service, all they need is access to a solid internet connection on a device such as a tablet, desktop computer, smart phone or laptop.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt life in Australia, patients can continue to have instant access to medical healthcare services through utilising telehealth platforms. Anyone in Australia, no matter their time of day, night or their current location, can have a confidential video consultation with an online doctor.
They can get their medical certificate online instead of going into a medical clinic in person, get a referral to a specialist, receive repeat prescriptions for medication, have a general check-up via video conferencing and more.
Over the past few years, Australians have increasingly used a variety of mobile apps to help monitor their health such as their daily water intake, the number of steps taken in a day and exercise regime. According to Business Insider Australia, more than 40% of people are now using at least one mobile app to monitor their health.
However, telehealth service providers like Prime Medic offer a much more effective and streamlined option. All medical information is securely stored and kept private, allowing online doctors to monitor their patients’ health in terms of their fitness levels and goals, blood pressure, monitor and manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and much more.
Back in 2015, the American Journal of Managed Care published a study demonstrating that hospital admissions had reduced by 38% due to telehealth services. Not only do telehealth platforms help ease the flow of patients visiting hospitals and doctor clinics, but provides a time-saving alternative for Australians with busy work schedules or work outside typical business hours.
Even though telehealth services should not be used in a medical emergency or life-threatening situation, they are quickly becoming a new sense of normality in the way Australians access and receive their healthcare.
To learn more information about our services including getting your prescriptions, referrals and medical certificate online, browse through our website or download the Prime Medic app today.