Coviu's Telehealth Blog

The Australian federal budget announcement has been made! Telehealth services will be extended until 31st December 2021 with a further $204.6 million investment.

Recent trends in legislation show that the Australian government is starting to offer greater reimbursements for telehealth in rural areas. As a result, demand for telehealth services is increasing, offering a new income stream for GPs. Adopting this technology allows clinicians to fight off online competition and provide patients with continuity of care. However, it is only natural that you may have questions about how to effectively incorporate it into your practice.

Did you know that people living in rural and remote areas of Australia face more daily challenges and stressors than living in the main cities? These include a greater prevalence of chronic conditions, disability, and generally poorer health. In some areas reporting 8 times the hospitalisation rate for mental health-related issues.

Almost half of all Australians will suffer from mental illness at some stage in their lives, yet many will refuse, or be unable to seek professional help due to social stigmas and a lack of access to services. Remote and regional dwellers are particularly affected, as geographical and social isolation can reduce the number of mental health services available.