Prime Medic's Blog
Why More Workplaces Should Embrace Telemedicine
Melbourne and other parts in Victoria are slowly beginning to enjoy the easing of harsh restrictions. However, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic which is still consuming the world will still be felt as Victorians begin returning back to work this November. Whether it is for getting an online doctor medical certificate or for a general check-up, telemedicine services play an important role in the Australian workplace.
In strong efforts to try and keep on top of the low cases of Coronavirus in Australia, employees are required to take a COVID-19 test and avoid coming into work if they are experiencing any of the typical symptoms. This is one area where many businesses can benefit from embracing telehealth services such as Prime Medic.
Early detection
Using telemedicine services can act as a preventative strategy, ensuring each employee is maintaining their health and detecting any potential problems early. Many businesses in Australia have already teamed up with various telehealth platforms to be integrated into their sick-leave procedures.
If an employee is feeling unwell, they can call the telemedicine provider their work has partnered with and speak to a nurse over the phone. The nurse will then provide them with general medical advice and advise them if they should continue to stay at home or have a video consultation with a doctor. This prevents potentially sick staff from entering the workplace and increasing the risk of transmitting to other staff members.
It can save businesses money
When an employee calls in sick, it will cost the business money. According to the Absence Management Survey conducted by Direct Health Solutions in 2016, the average Australian employee takes roughly nine sick days off each year. Although it depends on the situation and their position, it was calculated that the nine sick days for each employee costs a business around $3, 608 per year.
By encouraging employees to utilise telehealth apps on their smartphones, tablets or laptops, it can reduce the amount of time staff need to take off due to being sick or just to get a medical certificate. Rather than take half the day off for an appointment at their local GP, employees can book a video consultation with an online doctor instead.
They can book an appointment for a time that is convenient for them such as their lunch break, as long as they have access to a solid internet connection on their device. Their medical certificate can then be emailed straight to their employer.
Encourages self-care
It’s all too common for some people to avoid going to the doctor until it’s too late. Whether it’s due to crowded waiting rooms, the environment or the time-consuming process, many employees can put off visiting a doctor. As our consultations are conducted via audio and video, these issues are no longer a factor.
Due to staff feeling more comfortable speaking to a doctor over a live video chat rather than in person, this encourages self-care. And with more staff looking after themselves and having convenient access to a network of experienced doctors across Australia, businesses will benefit from a stronger and healthier workforce.
Whether your staff need access to general medical advice, getting their online doctor medical certificate or more, ensure they download the Prime Medic app and embrace the many benefits telehealth services have to offer.
