Prime Medic's Blog
The Importance Of An Online GP Consultation During The Coronavirus Pandemic
During the recent outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the importance of having an online GP consultation rather than physically going into a medical clinic has never been more important and necessary. To help reduce the strain on the healthcare system, the Australian Government has announced it will inject$1.1 billion to help expand the capability of Medicare services.
Increasing the need for online medical services
Online medical services such as ‘telehealth’ consultations have seen a dramatic increase due to the coronavirus pandemic. These virtual medical consolations are conducted over video conferencing services or over the phone. It allows patients around Australia, regardless of their location, to speak with an experienced doctor and receive healthcare advice and information.
Even before the outbreak of the coronavirus, online healthcare providers such as Prime Medic were experiencing a steady increase in demand. Rural and remote areas across Australia in particular have been relying more and more on these online medical services to receive much-needed healthcare. All that is required to access these services is just a solid internet connection.
A benefit to patients
One of the most important benefits of an online GP consultation for patients during the coronavirus pandemic is that they will be much more protected.They will not be required to sit in crowded and busy doctor waiting rooms, potentially exposing themselves to other infected patients.
They will also be able to consult with some healthcare professionals without any out-of-pocket expenses. This is due to eligible specialists and GPs being able to bulk-bill their medical services. This allows patients to simply log into their account,have a consultation with their preferred GP, and if they need a script or prescription, it can be emailed, posted or faxed to the pharmacy or the patient themselves to print out.
A benefit to doctors
Doctors will also benefit from conducting online consultations with patients as they will be spared from the risk of infection.This will also help to limit the spread of the coronavirus while at the same time keeping GPs and their patients safe from infection. Critical protective equipment such as gowns, gloves and masks can also be conserved because healthcare professionals will not need to wear protective gear during their video consultation with patients.
How does it work?
An online consultation with a GPusing Prime Medic is a similar process as to what would happen in person. Patients simply create an account and then book an appointment with their preferred doctor relating to their medical issue.They will then receive a link that will then connect with the doctor via video conference.
If a patient is experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms, the patient can be requested to take their own temperature and measuring their heart rate while the GP talks them through it. If they possess a blood pressure monitor, the GP can advise them how to use it while watching to make sure they are using it properly.
It has never been a more important time to use online GP consultation services like Prime Medic during the coronavirus outbreak. Browse through our website to learn more information about how we can help you from the comfort of your own home.
